Sports Desk
4 March
Sandeep Dhand Ludhiana
In a setback for New Zealand’s cricket team, fast bowler Will O’Rourke has been ruled out of the second Test against Australia due to a muscle strain. His absence opens the door for Ben Sears, a T20 veteran with 13 international matches under his belt but yet to make his Test debut. The upcoming match in Christchurch might provide Sears with a chance to showcase his skills.
Adding to the team’s woes, opener Devon Conway is sidelined after injuring his left thumb during the T20 series against Australia. Conway is set to undergo surgery, and the recovery period is estimated to be at least eight weeks. New Zealand coach Gary Steed confirmed O’Rourke’s four-week absence and expressed confidence in Sears, noting the young bowler’s impressive skills, pace, and crucial bounce for Test cricket.
With Australia securing a 172-run victory in the first Test, they currently lead the two-match series 1-0. As the cricketing drama unfolds, New Zealand faces a challenging task of regaining ground with a reshuffled lineup against their trans-Tasman rivals.