Star New Zealand fast bowler William O’Rourke will not play in the upcoming multi-format series against India due to his ongoing recovery from two injuries sustained over the past few months.
During the tour of England a few months back, he sustained injuries to his hamstring and calf. As O’Rourke works to regain health for the pivotal four-Test away series against Australia, which begins on December 9 at Perth’s Optus Stadium, New Zealand Cricket has ruled him out of selection for the forthcoming matches.
William O’Rourke Out Of India Series
O’Rourke has recently struggled with injuries. After sustaining a back stress fracture in August 2025, he missed seven months of action before making a comeback in April. O’Rourke made appearances against Bangladesh, England, and Sri Lanka, but he has subsequently experienced another setback.
“It is 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 rehab both injuries and safely build up his bowling loads,” New Zealand coach Rob Walter said.
“Our pace bowling resources will be critical over the next few months, so we are taking a conservative approach to Will’s return to ensure he is fully fit before he takes the field again,” Walter added.
Given the difficulties O’Rourke caused Indian batters during their historic 3-0 series victory in India in 2024, New Zealand will suffer greatly from his absence. O’Rourke flourished in spin-friendly conditions, taking seven wickets at an average of 18.42 in three Test matches.
Before the vital all-format series against India at home, has already lost a number of cricket players to injuries. After dislocating his shoulder in an odd accident during a commercial shoot, star batsman Rachin Ravindra will miss the T20I leg.