New Zealand cricketer left with facial fracture after ball smashes through face guard

Cricketer Mitchell McClenaghan is facing eye surgery after this freak incident in yesterday’s one-day international between New Zealand and Pakistan.

McClenaghan had been having a good game, clearing the boundary twice and striking three fours.

But he had to retire after a nasty bouncer from Anwar Ali breached his face guard and lodged inside his helmet.

The New Zealander was knocked to the ground by the impact and had to leave the field.

McClenaghan later tweeted to say: “Everything is as good as it can be just a few broken bones”.

Thanks for all the concerns. Everything is as good as it can be just a few broken bones. Great win for the boys! 🐼 pic.twitter.com/S9A2pZqETa

— Mitchell McClenaghan (@Mitch_Savage) January 25, 2016

It was confirmed the player suffered a facial fracture and will undergo minor surgery to repair the damage later this week.