Spin race for Sydney test

same tour Santner made his debut in Adelaide.

Lyon, for one, wasn’t about to write off one of world cricket’s premier white ball spinners, even if his best first-class return remains 3-27 from 50 matches.

‘‘Mitch probably hasn’t had the series that he’s wanted to but he’s a world-class player,’’ Lyon said.

‘‘He’s a brilliant fielder, his bowling’s improving, he’s a great batter as well. You can’t just write off someone who has been under the pump for two games.’’

‘‘Yeah, the SCG will suit Mitch and the way he bowls, we’re expecting him to definitely play and play a massive role in the next week.’’

Still, it seems Stead and captain Kane Williamson will find it tough to back Santner for another test given his struggles and two viable options in the squad.

‘‘It’s not only Mitch that’s had a tough fortnight, there’s other players who haven’t had the performances and results they wanted,’’ Stead said.

‘‘It was three tests ago that Mitch got a century that helped us win a test match [against England]. Whilst we’re talking about slightly different roles that’s the thing Kane and I have to get our head around for the next test match.’’

Otherwise Neil Wagner and Tim Southee’s fitness will be monitored amid heavy workloads.

Wagner bowled 115.2 overs in Perth and Melbourne (14 wickets at 20.28) and Southee 99.4 overs (12 wickets at 25.75), while Pat Cummins was the most-used Australian quick with 68.4 overs (eight wickets at 19).

Stead said both were resilient and had done a sterling job.

‘‘It’s heartening when you hear the Australian media and players talking up the likes of Neil and the role that he’s done.

‘‘The fastest left-arm pace bowler to get to 200 wickets [46 tests] is a special feat and he’s found a way that challenges all players around the world. I certainly hope he’s available.’’