New Zealand hit by injuries before second Test vs Zimbabwe
New Zealand’s injury worries have grown as fast bowler Will O’Rourke has been ruled out of the second Test against Zimbabwe with a back injury. O’Rourke felt back pain on day three of the first Test and has gone home for further checks. Auckland Aces’ left-arm seamer Ben Lister, who was already with the team as cover, will now stay on.
The Black Caps are also missing fast-bowling allrounder Nathan Smith, who is out with a stomach strain. This led to the call-up of new player Zakary Foulkes. Bowling coach Jacob Oram stays cautious but hopeful about O’Rourke’s recovery. He stressed the need to keep him safe for the tours ahead.
O’Rourke bowled 13 overs without a wicket in the first innings of the opening Test but shone with 3 for 28 in the second before getting hurt. His absence could give Jacob Duffy or Matthew Fisher a chance to play their first Test.
Meanwhile, skipper Tom Latham is still uncertain whether he’ll play due to a shoulder problem, as New Zealand get ready for the second Test starting August 7.
