Cricholic
Injuries have disrupted New Zealand’s plans for the upcoming home summer. Consequently, key players Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, and Finn Allen will miss next month’s Chappell-Hadlee T20I series against Australia.
⚠️ Injuries Force O’Rourke Out of Early Summer Schedule
Will O’Rourke, the 24-year-old pacer, suffered a stress fracture in his lower back. Therefore, doctors have ruled him out for at least three months. He picked up the injury during New Zealand’s first Test against Zimbabwe.
Meanwhile, he has returned home and started a strength and conditioning program. The team will reassess him in the coming weeks.
Head coach Rob Walter said:
“We feel for Will and wish him a speedy recovery. His start to international cricket has been outstanding. Although this injury is a setback, his resilience will help him come back stronger.”
As a result, O’Rourke will miss the early white-ball tours against:
- Australia (October 1-4)
- England (October 18 – November 1)
- West Indies (November 5-22)
🛑 Injuries Keep Phillips and Allen on the Sidelines
Glenn Phillips continues to rehabilitate a groin injury from the Zimbabwe series. The team will reassess him in a month.
Additionally, Finn Allen will remain out for three months after surgery on his right foot, delaying his return to action.
Walter added:
“It’s disappointing to lose Glenn and Finn. However, it opens doors for other players to step up.”
❗ Injuries Cast Doubt on Mitchell Santner’s Availability
White-ball captain Mitchell Santner returned home after groin pain during The Hundred. He will undergo abdominal surgery. Therefore, his recovery will take around a month, putting his participation in the Australia series in doubt.
Walter commented:
“Mitch is a world-class player and a key part of our T20 side. We plan to include him in the squad announcement. Meanwhile, we will monitor his rehabilitation closely before confirming his participation.”
🌟 Injuries Open Opportunities for Other Players
Despite missing key players, Walter sees a silver lining:
“Losing Glenn and Finn is disappointing. Nevertheless, it opens doors for others to step up in what promises to be an exciting and pivotal series against Australia.”
✅ Positive Update: Ben Sears Cleared After Injury
On a positive note, seamer Ben Sears has recovered from a side strain. Consequently, he will be ready for the start of New Zealand’s home summer season.
