Michael Bracewell to undergo surgery after rupturing Achilles during Worcestershire T20 stint

The New Zealand allrounder will be sidelined for six to eight months, ruling him out of October's 50-over World Cup

Michael Bracewell is set for an extended stint on the sidelines after rupturing his right Achilles while playing for Worcestershire in the T20 Blast.

The New Zealand international will undergo surgery in the UK before beginning six to eight months of rehabilitation, ruling him out of October's 50-over World Cup.

Bracewell sustained the injury while batting for Worcestershire against Yorkshire at Headingley on June 9, retiring hurt on 11 (7) in the second over as his side attempted to chase 225.

The allrounder, who was set to be available for Worcestershire's entire T20 campaign, scored 91 runs at a strike rate of 124.65 and picked up seven wickets in seven outings.

^{Bracewell was set to play a key part in New Zealand's World Cup campaign [Michael Bradley/Getty Images]}

Bracewell has become a key member of New Zealand's national side in all three formats since making his debut in March 2022 and was recently named men's ODI player of the year at New Zealand Cricket's end of year awards.

He has scored 510 runs at 42.50, including a blockbuster 140 (78) against India in Hyderabad, and taken 15 wickets in 19 ODIs.

New Zealand head coach, Gary Stead, said: "You always feel for the player when injury strikes and especially when it means they will have to miss a world event.

"Michael's a great team man and has had a fantastic 15 months for the Black Caps since his international debut.

"We've seen his exceptional skills in all three facets of the game and he was shaping as an important player for us at the World Cup."