Published: Feb 09, 2016, 01:50 PM (IST)
Edited: Feb 09, 2016, 01:50 PM (IST)
Wellington: New Zealand off-spinner Mark Craig has been named in the Test squad as a replacement for injured Mitchell Santner for the upcoming two-match series against Australia. Santner experienced soreness in his right foot following the second ODI of the three-match series against Australia, which New Zealand went on to win by 2-1. Reflecting on Santner’s exclusion, coach Mike Hesson said it was quite unfortunate to lose a key player, adding that he hoped the former would recover ahead of the second Test. “It’s unfortunate for Mitch, as he has been a key player for us so far this summer.The positive news is that we picked it up early and hopefully Mitch can make a quick recovery.” Hesson was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo. LIVE CRICKET SCORECARD: New Zealand vs Australia , 1st Test match, New Zealand vs Australia 2015-16
New Zealand will play a two-match Test series against Australia in Wellington, starting from Friday. The New Zealand squad for the opening Test is as follows: Brendon McCullum (captain), Corey Anderson, Doug Bracewell, Trent Boult, Martin Guptill, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Mark Craig , Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling (wicketkeeper), Kane Williamson.READ: Mitchell Santner doubtful for 3rd ODI of New Zealand vs Australia
Santner is nursing a foot injury. New Zealand Cricekt (NZC) had called spinner Ish Sodhi into the squad for the third ODI in Hamilton on Monday, fearing Santner would not recover from an injury sustained in Australia’s series-levelling win in Wellington on Saturday. “Santner experienced pain in his right foot at the conclusion of the second ODI in Wellington and will be monitored ahead of tomorrow’s match before a decision is made on his availability,” NZC had said in a statement.
