New Zealand all-rounder Daryl Mitchell is questionable for this month’s Twenty20 World Cup in Australia after fracturing a finger in training on Friday.
Mitchell was ruled out of this week’s tri-series in New Zealand, which also included Pakistan and Bangladesh as a warm-up for the global championship.
The injury was sustained by the 31-year-old while batting in the nets in Christchurch.
He will remain in a cast for at least two weeks, meaning he may not be able to play in the Black Caps’ opening World Twenty20 match on October 22 against Australia.
Mitchell, who has enjoyed 18 months of success in all three international formats, will be followed by medical personnel.
The loss of their hard-hitting batsman and medium-paced bowler would be devastating, according to coach Gary Stead.
“Daryl has been a crucial member of our T20 squad, and we will miss his all-around abilities and adaptability in the tri-series,” Stead said.
“With our first World Cup game in little over two weeks, we must take (time) to evaluate Daryl’s recovery timeframe and potential participation in the tournament.”