Fast bowler Will O’Rourke will be out for at least three months with a stress fracture in his lower back, New Zealand Cricket announced on Tuesday, adding to an increasing injury list.
The 24-year-old was injured while bowling in the first Test against Zimbabwe this month and returned home, where scans revealed the extent of the damage.
“We’re really feeling for Will at the moment and wishing him a speedy recovery,” said New Zealand head coach Rob Walter.
O’Rourke will miss the home white-ball series against Australia in early October, England later that month, and the West Indies in November.
All-rounder Glenn Phillips was also ruled out of the Australia series as he recovers from the groin injury that caused him to miss the Zimbabwe tour.
Additionally, opening batsman Finn Allen will be out for a minimum of three months after undergoing surgery on his right foot.
“It’s disappointing to lose the services of Glenn and Finn, who have played important batting roles in our T20 set-up in recent times,” said Walter.
