New Zealand fast bowler Will O’Rourke will sit out the upcoming home series against India as he continues his recovery from injuries to his left hamstring and calf, with the pacer and the team management prioritising his availability for the four-Test tour of Australia in December.
Ideally he’ll be able to return for Canterbury in the Plunket Shield in late December, and in a perfect world he’ll be ready to go for the opening Test against Australia in Perth on December 9,” Walter said. The India tour will begin with five T20 Internationals on October 22, followed by five one-day internationals and two Test matches.
The Blackcaps’ coach Rob Walter said the decision was taken jointly with O’Rourke and the team’s medical staff to allow the fast bowler sufficient time to recover and rebuild his bowling workload without risking further setbacks. “Our pace bowling resources will be critical over the next few months so we’re taking a conservative approach to Will’s return to ensure he’s fully fit before he takes the field again. O’Rourke’s absence is a setback for New Zealand’s pace attack ahead of a demanding international schedule, although the team management is keen to avoid rushing back a bowler who has already endured two significant injury interruptions. New Zealand’s preparations for India’s visit have already been affected by other fitness concerns.
Batsman Mark Chapman and all-rounder Zak Foulkes were ruled out of the T20 squad on Saturday, with Josh Clarkson and Blair Tickner named as their replacements. New Zealand are scheduled to announce their squad for the ODI series on Sunday.
