Kyle Jamieson facing months on the sidelines as back surgery is confirmed

The New Zealand seamer faces between three and four months out of action following the procedure which will likely compromise hopes of playing in the Indian Premier League

Kyle Jamieson needs surgery to treat a recurrence of a stress fracture in his lower back which could keep him out for as long as four months.

The New Zealand seamer was ruled out of the England Tests after suffering a setback in the lead-up to the series.

Head coach Gary Stead confirmed surgery would be required after scans and consultation with specialists.

"It's been a challenging and difficult time for Kyle and a big loss for us," Stead said.

"He's been fantastic around all of our sides when he's been part of them. We just wish him well and hope we'll know more in three to four months of what that end prognosis looks for him as well.

Jamieson suffered the original injury during the 2022 tour of England (PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty Images)

"A number of world-class players have had surgery in the back and it's different periods of time they recover. We just want Kyle [to get] the best chance of recovery because we know what a star he's been for us.

"Surgery provides a quicker return to play and that's the encouraging thing for him."

Jamieson suffered the original problem during the away Test series in England last June but was closing in on an international return, having turned out in the Super Smash, Ford Trophy for a New Zealand XI against the tourists in a tour match.

The absence will see him miss the multi-format tours of Sri Lanka and Pakistan and leaves his participation in the Indian Premier League - he was due to represent Chennai Super Kings after being picked up during the auction - in tatters.

Part of the side that won the World Test Championship in 2021, the 28-year-old has 72 wickets at 19.45 in 16 Tests for the Black Caps.

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