Santner replaces Neesham, New Zealand waits for Taylor

Hamilton, November 21.

Allrounder Mitchell Santner has come in the side in place of Jimmy Neesham in New Zealand’s 15-man squad for the second and last Test against Pakistan, while the status of Ross Taylor for the game beginning November 25 in Hamilton is still yet to be affirmed.

A choice on Taylor will be taken after he counsels a master about a development in his left eye, which New Zealand mentor Mike Hesson felt might influence his batting and getting. Senior member Brownlie, the Northern Districts’ batsman, will join the squad as cover for Taylor.

Santner, one of New Zealand’s greatest positives amid their 3-0 crush in the Tests in India, has made a recuperation from a wrist break he endured three weeks back.

“It’s clearly satisfying to have Mitchell back with the group in front of the second Test,” national selector Gavin Larsen said. “With him and Todd (Astle) in the group, it gives us the chance to play two spinners if required. Mitchell brings all-round capacity and is falling off a strong tour of India.

Neesham, who was let well enough alone for the primary Test for Colin de Grandhomme, will join Otago in front of the following round of Plunkett Shield matches. New Zealand took a 1-0 lead in the series against Pakistan by winning the primary Test in Christchurch by eight wickets.

Squad: Kane Williamson (captain), Todd Astle, Trent Boult, Henry Nicholls, Mitchell Santner, Colin de Grandhomme, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Jeet Raval, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling and Dean Brownlie