Mitchell Santner | New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 2018-19 |
Mitchell Santner. Credit: Getty Images

New Zealand have included Mitchell Santner, who has recovered from his knee injury, in the 13-member squad for the one-off T20I against Sri Lanka. Meanwhile, Jimmy Neesham finds a place after his blistering knock in the squad which sees Kane Williamson rested ahead of the series against India. Experienced fast bowler Tim Southee will lead the Kiwis.

Santner underwent knee surgery in March last year and spent the rest of 2018 recovering from the injury. He returned for Northern Districts and was highly impressive and economical. He ended with 1 for 16 from his four overs against Otago to prove his fitness.

Selector Garvin Larson was happy to have Mitchell Santner back in the side and also seemed happy with Tim Southee leading the side.

Mitchell Santner Returns to the New Zealand T20I After Long Injury Lay-Off 1
Getty Images

“Tim did a really good job leading the side against Pakistan and the West Indies last season and he’s got a nice mix of proven performers and some fresh faces to work with,” selector Gavin Larsen said.

“We’re delighted to welcome Mitchell back into the BLACKCAPS environment and he’s shown in his performances for the Knights in the Super Smash that he’s ready for international cricket again,” he added.

After the one-off T20I, New Zealand will play India in five ODIs and three T20Is starting from January 23.

Squad:

Tim Southee (c), Lockie Ferguson, Martin Guptill, Scott Kuggeleijn, Colin Munro, Jimmy Neesham, Henry Nicholls, Glenn Phillips, Seth Rance, Mitchell Santner, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi, Ross Taylor.

Ankush Das

I am an accountant by qualification, my parents thought their obedient son would study further to become a CA, but I had other things in mind. An ardent Cricket fan is following his passion and making...