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Will O’Rourke Ruled Out of Second Test Against Zimbabwe Due to Back Injury
New Zealand Pacer Suffers Setback Ahead of Series Finale in Bulawayo
New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has confirmed that rising fast bowler Will O’Rourke will miss the upcoming second and final Test against Zimbabwe due to a back injury. The announcement was made on Tuesday, just days ahead of the series decider, which begins on August 7 at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.
O’Rourke, who impressed in the opening Test of the two-match series, experienced back stiffness during Day 3 of the first Test. Despite the discomfort, he bowled 23 overs and picked up three wickets, playing a key role in New Zealand’s commanding nine-wicket victory.
Ben Lister Named as Replacement for Final Test
In light of O’Rourke’s injury, Ben Lister, a left-arm pacer who is yet to make his Test debut, has been drafted into the New Zealand squad as cover. The Auckland seamer has previously represented New Zealand in white-ball formats but will now get an opportunity to be part of the red-ball setup.
This call-up reflects the Black Caps’ confidence in their fast-bowling depth and player development pipeline. While Lister may not feature in the playing XI immediately, his inclusion offers the team a left-arm variation and a fresh option should the pitch in Bulawayo demand it.
🔗 Related Article: New Zealand crush Zimbabwe by 9 wickets in First Test
O’Rourke’s Impact and Fitness Timeline
Key Role in New Zealand’s Dominant Start
Will O’Rourke has been viewed as a promising asset in New Zealand’s fast-bowling arsenal, especially in the absence of seasoned pacers like Trent Boult and Neil Wagner. His three-wicket haul in the first Test helped restrict Zimbabwe to a modest first innings total, laying the groundwork for the team’s emphatic win.
While the injury is not believed to be long-term, NZC medical staff have chosen to take a precautionary approach. A comprehensive assessment will follow the series to determine his availability for New Zealand’s upcoming assignments, including tours and ICC events.
New Zealand Aim for Series Sweep
After securing a one-sided win in the series opener, New Zealand will look to complete a 2-0 series sweep in the second Test. Their performance in Bulawayo highlighted not just individual brilliance but also a cohesive team effort. With the top order firing and bowlers exploiting conditions effectively, the Black Caps enter the second Test as clear favorites.
On the other side, Zimbabwe will be hoping to bounce back and put up a more competitive display in front of their home crowd. Their batting and bowling units struggled in the first game, and they will need a significant turnaround to level the series.
Match Schedule and Venue
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2nd Test: August 7 – Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
New Zealand’s selectors are expected to announce the playing XI closer to match day. With Ben Lister now in the squad, team balance and conditions will dictate whether he makes his Test debut or continues to serve as a backup option.
🔗 Official NZC Match Schedule and Squad Updates – New Zealand Cricket
