New Zealand’s all-rounder and white-ball captain, Mitchell Santner, will be out of action for around a month following a grade three ACL shoulder injury, as confirmed by New Zealand Cricket (NZC) on Friday. Santner sustained the injury while playing for Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League, necessitating a replacement due to his absence on the field.
The 29-year-old initially faced trouble with his non-bowling shoulder during a match against Delhi Capitals on April 4, leading him to miss the subsequent game against Rajasthan Royals. Despite returning to play in later matches, Santner’s shoulder issues resurfaced during the game against Chennai Super Kings, forcing him to withdraw from the tournament.
Having returned to New Zealand, Santner underwent a medical evaluation that prescribed a minimum rest and recovery period of one month. Consequently, he will miss upcoming matches against Ireland and the first Test against England, with his availability for subsequent Tests to be determined later.
New Zealand Cricket disclosed that the squad for the Ireland and England Tests will be announced shortly, while Santner’s absence also impacts the team’s forthcoming series against the West Indies in July.
