New Zealand fast bowler Will O’Rourke has been sidelined with a stress fracture in his lower back. He is expected to be out for around three months after picking up the injury during the recent Test series in Zimbabwe.
The 24-year-old will not need surgery. Instead, he will follow a strength and conditioning program to aid his recovery.
O’Rourke will miss the T20 series against Australia, the white-ball tour of England in October, and the limited-overs series against the West Indies in November. He is likely to return in time for the three-Test home series against the West Indies in December.
The pacer has made a strong start to his career since debuting against South Africa last year. He has already taken 39 wickets in 11 Tests.
“We’re really feeling for Will right now and wishing him a speedy recovery,” coach Rob Walter said in a press release. “He has been very impressive since coming into the side. It is disappointing to see him sidelined, but he is resilient and determined to come back stronger.”
Walter also noted the absence of other key players. “It is disappointing to lose Glenn and Finn, who have played important batting roles in our T20 side recently,” he said.