In a significant blow to the New Zealand cricket team, all-rounder Michael Bracewell has suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon during the ongoing T20 Blast in England. Bracewell, who was in fine form, will be sidelined for six to eight months, which means he will miss the upcoming 50-over World Cup in India later this year. This injury setback is another blow for the Black Caps, who are also likely to be without their talismanic batter, Kane Williamson, due to an injury.
Michael Bracewell is set to undergo surgery in the UK on Thursday, June 15, following his Achilles injury. The surgery will be followed by an extensive rehabilitation period. The unfortunate timing of the injury means Bracewell will not be able to represent New Zealand in the highly anticipated World Cup, a major disappointment for both the player and the team.
Since making his ODI debut in March 2022, Bracewell has become an integral part of the New Zealand cricket setup. In his 19 ODI appearances, he has showcased his prowess with the bat and the ball. Batting predominantly at No. 6 and 7, Bracewell has scored 510 runs at an impressive average of 42.50. One of his most memorable innings came against India in Hyderabad earlier this year when he hammered a scintillating 140 off just 78 balls, including 12 fours and ten sixes, in pursuit of India’s challenging total of 349/8.
In addition to his batting exploits, Bracewell has also made an impact with the ball, claiming 15 wickets in ODI cricket. His all-around abilities and consistent performances made him a crucial asset for New Zealand in the World Cup, with his presence likely to be sorely missed by the team.
New Zealand’s head coach, Gary Stead, sympathized with Bracewell and emphasized the disappointment of losing a key player ahead of a major tournament. Stead acknowledged Bracewell’s contributions to the team and recognized his exceptional skills across all aspects of the game. The coach praised Bracewell’s commitment to the team and acknowledged his importance in the World Cup campaign in India.
“Michael’s a great team man and has had a fantastic 15 months for New Zealand since his international debut. We’ve seen his exceptional skills in all three facets of the game and he was shaping up as an important player for us at the world cup in India.
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It will take Bracewell up to two weeks after the surgery to fly back home from the UK. “Michael’s naturally pretty disappointed, but also pragmatic in acknowledging that injuries are a part of the sport and he’s now turning his focus to his rehabilitation.”
Bracewell’s surgery and subsequent rehabilitation will keep him out of action for six to eight months. Following the surgery, he will need approximately two weeks to return home from the UK. Despite the setback, Bracewell remains resilient and focused on his rehabilitation, understanding the inevitability of injuries in sports.
