The second Test in Hamilton between South Africa and New Zealand will see the teams continue their current Test series. As they prepare to play South Africa at Seddon Park in Hamilton on Tuesday, February 13, New Zealand, who won the opening Test of the series by 281 runs, will look to seal the series.
The captain of New Zealand, Tim Southee, spoke up ahead of the second Test to discuss the likelihood that uncapped speedster William O’Rourke will start in the Hamilton Test starting eleven.
William O’Rourke could be included since Hamilton’s pitch is predicted to assist the pacers, as seen by the three-man pace attack that New Zealand fielded in the opening Test of the series.
“There’s a strong likelihood; he’s among the 13. Neil has been a terrific performer for us for a long time and he has been around the group as well. Having those choices to make is fantastic. Will is an interesting talent who has experienced a little bit of international cricket. ESPNcricinfo cited Southee as stating, “I’m sure he has a bright future at the highest level as well.”
He is also skilled with the ball. Tim Southee
It’s noteworthy to mention that in December 2023, during the home ODI series against Bangladesh, William O’Rourke made his ODI debut for New Zealand. Veteran pacer Tim Southee compared the 22-year-old’s frame to that of great pacer Kyle Jamieson after he claimed five wickets in his three games.
Being a huge, tall person, he’s not too different from KJ Jamieson. His height and ability to bounce are undoubtedly his talents. He is also skilled with the ball. He will undoubtedly succeed at this level since he possesses the skills necessary to be a very excellent bowler, the speaker continued.
Southee said, “Will’s probably played a bit more cricket than I had [at his age]. He’s got a great head on his shoulders.”