New Zealand fast bowler Will O’Rourke will miss the upcoming home series against India as he continues his rehabilitation from injuries to his left hamstring and calf, New Zealand Cricket said on Saturday.
O’Rourke suffered a hamstring tear during New Zealand’s test series victory over England in June before injuring his calf during training in late August.
The 25-year-old will target a return to full fitness ahead of New Zealand’s four-test tour of Australia, which begins on December 9.
“It’s obviously disappointing for Will to have to miss such a marquee tour at home against India,” New Zealand coach Rob Walter said in a statement.
“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.
“Our pace bowling resources will be critical over the next few months so we’re taking a conservative approach to Will’s return to ensure he’s fully fit before he takes the field again.”
New Zealand will host India for five Twenty20 internationals, five one-day internationals and two tests, with the opening T20 scheduled for Christchurch on October 22.
