NEW Zealand international and Worcestershire Rapids overseas signing Michael Bracewell has been ruled out for the remainder of the cricket season after rupturing his Achilles. 

Bracewell had to retire injured during the Rapids' Vitality Blast defeat to Yorkshire Vikings last Friday and it has now the severity of that incident has been confirmed. 

He will undergo surgery this week in the UK before beginning a rehabilitation process that is likely to rule him out of the game for a period of six to eight months, which means he will miss the ICC World Cup later this year. 

Black Caps Coach Gary Stead commented: "First and foremost, our sympathies go out to the player when injury befalls him, especially when it means missing a global event such as the ICC World Cup in October-November."

"Michael is an exceptional team player, and he has made remarkable contributions to the Black Caps since his international debut 15 months ago.

"We have witnessed his exceptional skills across all three aspects of the game. While naturally disappointed, Michael is also pragmatic about the inherent nature of injuries in sport and is now redirecting his focus towards rehabilitation."

Expressing his disappointment, Worcestershire Head Coach Alan Richardson added; "It is always disheartening when a player suffers a severe injury, and our thoughts are with Michael during this time.

"He has integrated seamlessly into our group at New Road and has demonstrated glimpses of his undeniable talent in his brief tenure with us.

"Everyone is devastated for Michael, and we wish him a swift and successful recovery."