Colin De Grandhomme in New Zealand is expected to have surgery on his right finger, which will put him on the sidelines for 6-8 weeks. It is expected to be suitable for a tour of England in May-June.
De Grandhomme has struggled with the same injuries since the start of the 2020-21 season and has been absent from international cricket since March last year.
The 34-year-old had to play as a specialist bat in the domestic Ford Trophy and Super Smash tournaments.
“It has been a challenging time for Colin and we hope this approach will allow him to return to full responsibility in his ankle,” said NZC medical manager Dayle Shackel.
De Grandhomme has played as a specialist bat in domestic tournaments
“He’s expected to need six weeks of breathing before he can return to running and another two weeks before he can resume bowling.”
Blackcaps coach Gary Stead spoke about the importance of de Grandhomme to their side and expects it to be fully suited for New Zealand’s tour of England at the end of May and the final of the ICC World Test against the -India.
“His contributions to the BLACKCAPS over the last few years are outstanding in all three forms and he has been a huge part of our team,” he said.
He is expected to need six weeks of breathing before he can return to running and another two weeks before he can resume bowling.
“His skills with the ball, power with the bat, and catching in the field make him one of the top players in the world so we naturally want him to see the right injury. and make it available to us again.
“It is too early to say what this might mean for our Trial visit to England in late May and June, but we hope that after surgery and rehabilitation there will be an opportunity to make the squad, “he said.