Will O'Rourke, the New Zealand fast bowler, is on the road to recovery from a back injury and could make his return next month. He sustained the injury during New Zealand's Test series in Zimbabwe in July 2025 and has been undergoing a strength and conditioning program. O'Rourke's comeback options include playing for New Zealand A in Sri Lanka or the senior side in Bangladesh, both of which overlap with the IPL and PSL. Black Caps selector Gavin Larsen confirmed that O'Rourke has been managed well in his rehab and is taking a long-term approach to his return. With a busy Test season ahead, including hosting India and touring England and Australia, New Zealand is keen on keeping O'Rourke fit. Gavin Larsen praised Will O'Rourke's management of his back injury rehab, saying he's being managed well. O'Rourke's been patient, though eager to return, understanding his importance to the team. "So, we're taking a long-term plan with Will's return to play. So, he will be on the park this month, not necessarily at first-class level, but he will also play a role through April for us and that will be revealed once we name the touring squads." New Zealand is keen on keeping Will O'Rourke injury-free, given his crucial role as a point-of-difference bowler with his towering frame and high point of release. O'Rourke's back injury has put him out for at least three months, and he's currently undergoing a strength and conditioning program. With a busy Test schedule ahead, including hosting India and touring England and Australia, New Zealand is taking a long-term approach to his recovery. "Obviously we've got some pretty big cricket that emerges through the middle of the year with the Test matches," Larsen said. "We've got ten really big Test matches which are almost in a way back-to-back. So, having a Will O'Rourke fit and fresh and being able to utilise him through that period is crucial." O'Rourke's comeback options include playing for New Zealand A in Sri Lanka or the senior side in Bangladesh, likely overlapping with the IPL and PSL. Coach Rob Walter emphasizes managing O'Rourke carefully, considering his importance to the team.