New Zealand's middle-order batter, Daryl Mitchell, will be sidelined for the second Test against South Africa next week as he continues to recover from a persistent foot problem. This decision aims to ensure his fitness for the upcoming home series against world champions Australia, New Zealand Cricket announced on Thursday.

Mitchell, who contributed to New Zealand's commanding 281-run victory in the first Test against South Africa, will also miss the subsequent three Twenty20 matches against Australia scheduled for this month. His absence is attributed to the need for additional treatment for a foot injury that previously kept him out of the home Twenty20 series against Pakistan in January.

With five centuries in 31 Tests, the 32-year-old cricketer is considered a vital asset across all formats of the game. Gary Stead, the head coach of the Black Caps, emphasized the significance of Mitchell's fitness, stating, "Daryl is a hugely important member of the squad in all three formats and ensuring he is in the best shape is vital with the period of matches to come."

Stead further added, "Based on the schedule ahead, now is an appropriate time to complete a period of rehabilitation," indicating the strategic timing of Mitchell's rest and recovery.

In Mitchell's absence, seamer Will O'Rourke is set to join the squad for the second Test against South Africa in Hamilton, fulfilling the planned rotation.

Meanwhile, New Zealand's star batter, Kane Williamson, solidified his position as the world's top-ranked male batter with centuries in both innings of the first Test against South Africa. A victory in the upcoming Test would mark a historic milestone for New Zealand, securing their first-ever Test series win over South Africa after 17 unsuccessful attempts since 1931.

As the Black Caps prepare for the upcoming challenges, Mitchell's focus on rehabilitation underscores the team's commitment to maintaining peak performance throughout the demanding international cricket calendar.