AUCKLAND – New Zealand all-rounder Mitchell Santner, alongside batsman Dean Brownlie, has returned to the hosts’ squad for the second Test against Pakistan starting in Hamilton on Friday.
Santner was ruled out of the first Test due to a fractured wrist. However, the all-rounder’s x-ray showed him to have fully recovered, making him available for the match starting this week. He replaces Jimmy Neesham in the squad.
Batsman Dean Brownlie, who last played a Test in 2013, will also join the squad as cover for senior cricketer Ross Taylor who would be seeing another eye specialist in the coming days after New Zealand coach Mike Hesson confirmed that the 32-year-old has vision problems.
New Zealand selector Gavin Larsen said in a press release: “It’s obviously pleasing to have Mitchell [Santner] back with the side ahead of the second Test. With him and Todd in the team, it gives us the opportunity to play two spinners if required. Mitchell brings all-round ability and is coming off a strong tour of India.”
He added: “We’re still waiting on a little more information on Ross [Taylor] before we make any decision on his availability for the second Test. Dean will come in as cover, but we should know more in the next couple of days.”-Online
