Fast bowler Kyle Jamieson faces another long spell on the sidelines after suffering a stress fracture in his back, New Zealand Cricket announced on Saturday.

Jamieson has been ruled out of cricket for at least six months after scans revealed the injury following New Zealand’s first Test win over South Africa in Mount Maunganui this month.

The towering seamer took match figures of 6-93 but later complained of back pain, which ruled him out of the second Test.

The injury is in the same location as a fracture which required an operation in February last year but team medical staff have decided against another operation.

The 29-year-old said the prospect of another period of rehabilitation was difficult to accept.

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“The last few days have been some of my most challenging but I am hugely grateful for the support I’ve received from my partner, family, teammates, support staff and medical professionals,” he said.

“I know injuries are part of life as a cricketer and at my age I am hopeful I still have many more playing days ahead of me.”

Kyle Jamieson has taken 80 wickets at an average of 19.73 in 19 Tests since his debut in 2020.

He is likely to be replaced by paceman Will O’Rourke for the two-Test home series against Australia starting in Wellington on February 29.

O’Rourke was named man of the match on Test debut in the second Test against South Africa in Hamilton this week, taking match figures of 9-93 in the seven-wicket win which secured a 2-0 series victory.

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