New Zealand’s Santner out of first Pakistan Test

AUCKLAND: New Zealand spinner Mitchell Santner has been ruled out of this month’s opening Test against Pakistan with a fractured wrist, the country’s cricket board said on Friday.

The 24-year-old left-armer was struck on his right wrist while training with the Northern Districts and is also doubtful for the second match of the two-Test series.

Santner, who has played 10 Tests for the Black Caps, showed promise during the recent tour of India where New Zealand were blanked 3-0 in the Test series and lost the following five-match One-day International series 3-2.

“After such a strong tour of India, it’s really disappointing for Mitch to pick up this injury ahead of the first match of the home summer,” New Zealand coach Mike Hesson said in a statement.

“We’re unsure whether Mitch will be available for the second Test at this stage, but we’ll be monitoring his recovery closely and look forward to having him back.”