Fractured wrist setback for Santner

New Zealand allrounder Mitchell Santner is out of the first test against Pakistan after suffering a fractured right wrist batting in the nets in Hamilton yesterday.

Santner, the left arm spinner and capable middle order batsman, would have been a sure pick for the test, starting in Christchurch on November 17. X- rays revealed the extent of the injury and leave him in doubt for the second test in Hamilton from November 25.

He was struck on the hand at Northern Districts training, continuing a bad run he’s had with hand injuries.

The 24- year- old fractured a little finger in Australia last summer and broke a finger in May.

Santner was one of five New Zealand players returning to Plunket Shield action with ND in the wake of the tour of India. Santner has played 10 tests, averaging 23.46 and taking 25 wickets at 38 apiece.

He’s won high praise from the New Zealand management for his performances and there’s certain to be a healthy debate over who should replace him.

Meanwhile, Auckland have an early chance to avenge their opening round defeat to leaders Wellington when the third round of Plunket Shield cricket starts today.

Wellington, leading the competition, won the first round clash at Mount Maunganui by six wickets.

A clutch of New Zealand players return for their provinces, in Auckland’s case with test opener Martin Guptill back and looking for runs ahead of the start of the Pakistan test series.

ND have New Zealand quartet Ish Sodhi, Corey Anderson, Tim Southee and captain Anton Devcich are all back for their game against Canterbury in Hamilton.