New Zealand fast bowler Will O’Rourke has been ruled out of the upcoming home series against India as he continues recovering from injuries to his left hamstring and calf, with the team prioritising his fitness for the four-Test tour of Australia in December.
The 25-year-old had returned to international cricket earlier this year after missing seven months because of a back stress fracture. His comeback was disrupted when he tore his hamstring on the final day of New Zealand’s third Test against England in June. He subsequently suffered a calf strain during training in late August.
New Zealand head coach Rob Walter said the decision was taken jointly by O’Rourke, the team management and medical staff to give the pacer sufficient time to recover and rebuild his bowling workload without risking further injury.
“It’s obviously disappointing for Will to have to miss such a marquee tour at home against India. He was set to feature in both the ODI and Test series, but following subsequent discussions, we all agreed it was best for him to take some more time to rehabilitate both injuries and safely build up his bowling loads,” Walter said.
He added that New Zealand would adopt a conservative approach given the importance of its pace-bowling resources over the coming months. O’Rourke could return for Canterbury in the Plunket Shield later in December, with the team hoping he will be available for the opening Test against Australia in Perth on December 9.
Since making his Test debut in 2024, O’Rourke has taken 49 wickets in 14 matches at an average of just under 25. He claimed 10 wickets during New Zealand’s 2-1 Test series victory in England in June before his hamstring injury ended his participation.
His recovery will determine whether he can resume competitive cricket with Canterbury before the Australia tour.
New Zealand’s preparations for India’s visit have also been affected by other fitness concerns. Batter Mark Chapman and all-rounder Zak Foulkes were ruled out of the T20 squad on Saturday, with Josh Clarkson and Blair Tickner named as replacements.
India’s tour will begin with five T20 Internationals from October 22, followed by five One-Day Internationals and two Test matches. New Zealand is scheduled to announce its ODI squad on Sunday.
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