Versatile all-rounder Daryl Mitchell will be sidelined for the second Test against South Africa and the following T20I series against Australia due to a foot injury. To replace him in the upcoming Test against Proteas starting on February 13, Canterbury bowler Will O’Rourke will step in.
Mitchell opted for rest during the fifth T20I against Pakistan and the Dream11 Super Smash Finals to aid his recovery from the injury. Despite these efforts, ongoing discomfort necessitates a crucial period of rehabilitation.
The 32-year-old, set to sit out the home Test in Hamilton, had a limited impact in the convincing win over South Africa in Mount Maunganui. Mitchell, primarily a right-hander, refrained from bowling and contributed 45 runs in total, with 34 in the first innings.
“We feel now is an appropriate time” – Gary Stead views on Daryl Mitchell’s rehab
New Zealand head coach Gary Stead emphasized Daryl Mitchell’s significance in various formats and stressed the necessity of rehabilitation. Stead’s remarks, quoted on the New Zealand Cricket official website, underscore the importance of prioritizing Mitchell’s recovery.
“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. Based on the schedule ahead, we feel now is an appropriate time for Daryl to complete a period of rehabilitation.”
Under the leadership of Tim Southee, the Black Caps will head to Hamilton on Saturday morning for the second Test, scheduled to start on Tuesday.
Kane Williamson’s twin centuries played a pivotal role in the hosts’ commanding 281-run victory in the first match. Rachin Ravindra also made a significant impact, turning his maiden Test hundred into a double-century in the first innings with an impressive 240 off 366 balls.
Seamer Kyle Jamieson stood out with four wickets, putting an inexperienced South African side under pressure throughout the match. The possibility of a first Test series defeat to the Kiwis looms for the Proteas.
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