South Africa top order batsman Hashim Amla is unlikely to feature in the rest of the third cricket Test against New Zealand after undergoing emergency surgery for a groin injury.

The 29-year-old was operated on in Wellington Hospital on Friday night after he edged a ball from New Zealand paceman Chris Martin into his groin during his innings of 63 on the first day of the Test.

South Africa manager Dr Mohammed Moosajee said Amla suffered extreme discomfort after the blow, and was taken to hospital for assessment.

“Hashim underwent emergency exploratory surgery resulting from blunt trauma sustained to his groin region,” Dr Moosajee said.

“He spent the night in hospital and was discharged this morning.

“The surgeon is satisfied with the outcome and expects Hashim to make a full recovery, however, it is unlikely that he will be able to take further part in the current Test match,” he said.

Amla was on 33 when he suffered the blow and received treatment on the field. He continued his innings for more than an hour before being dismissed in the first over after tea.

His loss is a further blow for the tourists who are already without star allrounder Jacques Kallis, who was ruled out with a stiff neck before play started.

Rain has delayed play on the second day at the Basin Reserve with South Africa set to resume on 2-136.