NZ vs AUS: Uncapped Ben Sears To Replace Will O'Rourke In New Zealand's Squad For Second Test

New Zealand have named uncapped Ben Sears in their squad for the second Test against Australia after pacer Will O'Rourke ruled out of the final match of the series due to a hamstring injury.

With the inclusion of Wellington Firebirds pacer in the squad, the hopes of retired Neil Wagner's return were quashed. After O'Rourke sustained an injury, fans predicted that Wagner would come out of retirement to play in the second Test in Christchurch.

New Zealand head coach Gary Stead confirmed that Sear is a great asset in red-ball cricket hinting that the pacer would make his Test debut for Blackcaps on Thursday.

“Ben’s a young bowler with a quality skill set. He bowls with genuine pace and gets good bounce which is always a great asset in red ball cricket,” he said.

The 26-year-old pacer has 58 First-Class wickets from his 19 appearances at an average of 27.

“We’ve been really impressed by his performances for the Blackcaps in white ball cricket this summer and believe he can make the step up to the Test arena if called upon," Stead added.

The coach further expressed his disappointment over O'Rourke's injury that hindered his early career in international cricket after an impressive start.

“It’s disappointing for Will to be ruled out, especially after making such a strong start to his international career," Stead said.

“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 Cap," he added.

Devon Conway to undergo surgery

New Zealand Cricket also confirmed that opener Devon Conway will undergo surgery this week on the left thumb he damaged during the T20I series against Australia.

"Following several scans and specialist advice, the decision was made to operate on Conway with a likely recovery period of at least eight weeks," the release said.

Canterbury batter Henry Nicholls who was called in as cover for the first Test will stay with the squad for the second Test.

“We’re all feeling for Devon. He’s a massive part of the Blackcaps and we’re going to miss his presence both on and off the field," Stead said.

“We wish him all the best for his surgery and we will be there to support him as he begins his recovery," the head coach added.

Wagner has been released from the squad as planned, ahead of the team reassembling in Christchurch on Tuesday. The second Test against Australia starts on Thursday at Hagley Oval.

In the first Test in Wellington, New Zealand were crushed by 172 runs in just four days, despite their decision to go for an all-seam attack on a track that was favourable to spin.

After not being given a chance to bowl in the first innings, New Zealand all-rounder Glenn Phillips got five wickets in the second innings with his off-spin, while Australia's Nathan Lyon claimed ten wickets at the Basin Reserve.