Photo Credit: New Zealand Cricket
Daryl Mitchell will miss the second Tegel Test against South Africa and the KFC T20I series against Australia in an attempt to allow an ongoing foot injury to heal.
It was hoped recent periods of rest, including sitting out the 5th KFC T20I against Pakistan and the Dream11 Super Smash Finals, would allow the injury to heal, but with Mitchell still experiencing discomfort it was decided a focused period of rehabilitation was necessary.
Canterbury bowler Will O’Rourke will join the squad in Hamilton as planned, but Mitchell’s withdrawal means all remaining members of the squad for the 1st Test at Bay Oval will now travel to Hamilton.
BLACKCAPS head coach Gary Stead said the decision was based on a long-term view to ensure Mitchell is fully fit for the Tegel Test series against Australia starting on February 29.
“Daryl is a hugely important member of the squad in all three formats and ensuring he is in the best shape is vital with the period of matches to come,” said Stead.
“Based on the schedule ahead, we feel now is an appropriate time for Daryl to complete a period of rehabilitation.”
The BLACKCAPS travel to Hamilton on Saturday morning ahead of the second Test against South Africa which starts at Seddon Park on Tuesday.
