Star New Zealand batsman Daryl Mitchell will miss the next T20I series at home against Australia and the second and final Test against South Africa because of a nagging foot issue. Beginning on February 13, the Test match will take place at Seddon Park. In the meantime, Wellington Regional Stadium will host the first game of the three-match T20I series on February 21.
Due to recent ailments, the 32-year-old is unable to participate in the aforementioned games. But he should be back to full health soon, and he should play in New Zealand’s Test series against Australia, which starts on February 29. Will O’Rourke, who was originally chosen for the squad for the second Test, will take Mitchell’s position in the group. He could make his debut, but if not, Will Young will be the all-rounder in the batting lineup.
“Daryl plays a key role in all three formats for the team, so keeping him in peak condition is essential for the remaining games. According to Cricbuzz, head coach of New Zealand Gary Stead stated, “We feel that this is a suitable time for Daryl to finish a period of rehabilitation based on the schedule ahead.”
The Australia T20Is will be without Kane Williamson.
Stead added that Kane Williamson, the white-ball skipper, might be absent for the T20I series against Australia for personal reasons. While he was saying that, star bowler Trent Boult might be brought back to the team.
“I believe it’s doubtful that Kane will be around for the T20s as well, given that his wife is currently pregnant. Trent is available should we wish to select him. He and I are still in talks, but in terms of selection, we’re working through that right now and hoping to determine what that entails in the coming days,” the coach continued.