William O’Rourke likely to make his Test debut against South Africa in Hamilton

New Zealand are all set to continue their ongoing Test series by facing off against South Africa in the second Test in Hamilton. Winning the first Test of the series by 281 runs, New Zealand will aim to clinch the series as they gear up to take on South Africa at Seddon Park in Hamilton, from Tuesday, February 13.

Ahead of the second Test, New Zealand skipper Tim Southee came forward to talk about how uncapped quick William O’Rourke has a good chance to make it into the starting lineup for the Hamilton Test. In the first Test of the series, New Zealand fielded a three-man pace attack, and with Hamilton’s pitch expected to help the pacers, it could pave the way for O’Rourke’s inclusion.

“There’s a good chance; he’s in the 13. Neil’s been around the group as well and has been a great performer for us for a long period of time. It’s great to have those decisions to be made. Will’s an exciting talent and has had a little taste of international cricket, and I’m sure he has a bright future in the highest level as well,” Southee was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

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He’s got skills with the ball as well: Tim Southee

It is interesting to note that William O’Rourke made his ODI debut for New Zealand during the home ODI series against Bangladesh in December 2023. Picking up five wickets from his three appearances, veteran pacer Tim Southee compared the 22-year-old physique to that of star pacer, Kyle Jamieson.

“His strengths are obviously his height and ability to extract bounce, being a big, tall guy he’s not too dissimilar to KJ [Jamieson]. He’s got skills with the ball as well. He’s got the tools to be a very good bowler and someone who I’m sure will thrive at this level,” he further added.

“Will’s probably played a bit more cricket than I had [at his age], he’s got a great head on his shoulders,” Southee concluded.