Will O'Rourke ruled out of India series to prioritise Australia Tests
Will O'Rourke was ruled out of the India series to ensure fitness for New Zealand's Australia Tests starting in December.
New Zealand fast bowler Will O'Rourke has been ruled out of the upcoming multi-format series against India as he continues to recover from calf and hamstring injuries sustained during the tour of England. New Zealand coach Rob Walter said the decision was taken to ensure O'Rourke is fully fit for the four-Test series against Australia starting December 9 in Perth.
O'Rourke had returned to international cricket earlier this year after a seven-month absence with a back stress fracture. He was in line to feature in both the ODI and Test legs against India but will now focus on rehabilitation.
New Zealand have already lost Rachin Ravindra for the T20I series after he dislocated his shoulder in a commercial shoot accident. The two-Test series against India starts on November 19 in Wellington.
CricHubb Take
New Zealand's conservative approach with O'Rourke reveals how injury management has become the decisive factor in planning for back-to-back marquee tours.