In a huge blow to New Zealand, pacer Will O'Rourke, opener Finn Allen and Glenn Phillips have been ruled out of T20I series against Australia in October whereas captain Mitchell Santner’s participation looks doubtful.
O'Rourke suffered a stress fracture in his lower back during the first Test against Zimbabwe earlier this month and is ruled out of action for at least three months. The 24-year-old won't be a part of the white-ball series against England and multi-format series against West Indies at home either.
“We’re really feeling for Will at the moment and wishing him speedy recovery,” New Zealand head coach Rob Walter said.
“He’s had such an impressive start to his career and so naturally it is disappointing when an injury like this comes along, but he’s a resilient guy and determined to put the work in and come back stronger.”
Similarly, Allen will not be part of the home white-ball series this year after undergoing surgery on his right foot. However, Phillips can be back in action sooner. He arrived in Zimbabwe with a groin injury. He will be reassessed in a month's time to see if he can play in the series against England and West Indies.
There is a big question mark over Mitchell Santner's availability. After flying back home midway through The Hundred due to groin pain, Santner will undergo abdominal surgery. Close to the T20I series against Australia, it will be decided whether he is fit for return or otherwise.
"Mitch is a world class player and a crucial part of our T20 side from a skills and leadership point of view," Walter said. "With that in mind we expect to name him in our squad when we announce it in a couple of weeks' time, and from there we can assess how his rest and rehabilitation progresses following surgery, before making a call on the eve of the series.
"It's disappointing to lose the services of Glenn and Finn who have played important batting roles in our T20 set up in recent times. Like in Zimbabwe, their unavailability will present opportunities for others to put their hands up in what's going to be a hugely exciting and important series against Australia."
Star pacer recovers
The only good news for New Zealand ahead of Australia series is that pacer Ben Sears has recovered from the side strain that ruled him out of Zimbabwe tour.
New Zealand vs Australia T20I series schedule
The T20I series against Australia will begin on October 1 at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui. The second and third T20Is of the series will be played at the same venue on October 3 and 4 respectively.