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Will O'Rourke ruled out of India series, eyes return for New Zealand's Australia Tests

New Zealand fast bowler Will O'Rourke will miss the upcoming home series against India after aggravating injuries to his left hamstring and calf. The setbacks—first a hamstring tear during the third Test against England in June and later a calf strain in late August—have extended his recovery period, forcing his exclusion from the five-match T20I series starting October 22, the five ODIs, and the two-Test matches set for November 19 to December 1.

Coach Rob Walter confirmed the decision, emphasizing the need for a cautious rehabilitation approach to avoid further complications before the team’s demanding schedule, which includes a tour of Australia in December. O'Rourke, who returned to international cricket earlier this year after seven months out with a back stress fracture, had been a key performer since his Test debut in 2024, taking 49 wickets across 14 matches at an average under 25.

His absence from the India series underscores New Zealand’s focus on managing its pace-bowling resources amid a packed calendar, with Walter targeting a potential return for the Plunket Shield in late December or the opening Test against Australia in Perth on December 9, contingent on his fitness progression.

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