New Zealand Forced to Reshuffle XI for Second Test Against Australia

The New Zealand cricket team will be forced to make at least one change to their starting lineup for the second Test against Australia starting on March 8th in Christchurch.

Fast bowler Will O’Rourke, who made his Test debut in the first Test at Wellington which Australia won by 172 runs, has been ruled out with a hamstring injury sustained during the third day.

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O’Rourke’s absence is compounded by the continued absence of opener Devon Conway, who is recovering from thumb surgery after injuring himself in the T20I series against Australia.

While New Zealand opted against recalling recently retired quick Neil Wagner, they have named uncapped pacer Ben Sears in the 13-man squad for the second Test.

Sears, 26, has yet to make his Test debut but has impressed coach Gary Stead with his performances in white-ball cricket for the national team this summer.

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“Ben’s a young bowler with a quality skill set,” said Stead. “He bowls with genuine pace and gets good bounce, which is always a great asset in red-ball cricket. We’ve been really impressed by his performances and believe he can make the step up to the Test arena if called upon.”

Stead expressed disappointment for O’Rourke, acknowledging his strong start to his international career. “He’s shown he’s a player with huge potential, and at 22-years-old, we’re hopeful we will see a lot more of him in the Black Caps,” said Stead.

Conway, meanwhile, is expected to be sidelined for eight weeks following his thumb surgery. “We’re all feeling for Devon,” said Stead.

“He’s a massive part of the Black Caps, and we’re going to miss his presence both on and off the field. We wish him all the best for his surgery and will be there to support him as he begins his recovery.”