Colin de Grandhomme will be a continuing absence from the Blackcaps this summer, with the allrounder ruled out of the upcoming test series against Pakistan.
The 24-test veteran missed the 2-0 clean sweep of the West Indies with a right foot complaint that is still lingering.
Coach Gary Stead says a full recovery still seems a while away for the hard-hitting right-hander.
"He has a stress reaction in his right foot," reveals Stead.
"We still haven't been able to get him back to running and then obviously bowling as well.
"Looking like hopefully a mid-January return in the Super Smash."
The news is slightly better for left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel, who also missed the series against the West Indies through injury.
Stead confirms Patel will join the New Zealand A team later this week in Whangarei, to continue his recovery program.
"We are hoping he [Ajaz] will be in contention for the test matches against Pakistan, but it's still a bit wait and see with Ajaz."
Stead also reveals Kane Williamson is tentatively still scheduled to rejoin the squad for the second and third T20s against Pakistan next week, although there is no update on the impending arrival of the skipper's first child.
Meanwhile, Stead sees a legitimate future for new sensation Kyle Jamieson to develop his all-round cricket skills.
Jamieson starred with both bat and ball against the Windies, earning career-best figures in Wellington (5/34), while also notching a first test half-century in the first test. His overall performances good enough for the Man of the Series gong.
Stead has been impressed with his new charge - particularly his want to get better - and that opens up the potential for Jamieson to develop into a genuine first change bowler and No.7 batting option in all forms.
"Kyle is making every post a winner.
"The thing that impresses me most is his ability to want to get better and not be satisfied with where he is at right now.
"If Kyle continues to do that we will open those discussions in the future for Kyle to secure that No.7 batting position.
"I'm not sure he is quite there yet - but he is doing everything he can to push for that genuine all-rounder spot."
