The Black Caps have received a boost ahead of Thursday’s first test against England at Lord’s, with experienced all-rounder Mitchell Santner returning from a shoulder injury.
Santner had been ruled out after suffering a grade three shoulder injury while playing for the Mumbai Indians in April, but has recovered quicker than expected and joined the squad ahead of the series opener. He replaces Dean Foxcroft, who will return home early.
Coach Rob Walter would not confirm whether Santner would play at Lord’s but welcomed his availability.
“Not necessarily but happy he’s turned his fitness around so quickly, certainly a lot quicker than we expected, which is awesome,” Walter said.
“Hats off to him, he’s worked incredibly hard along with the staff. It’s just great he could join the squad again.”
