New Zealand all-rounder Mitchell Santner will miss their test series against England later this month to have knee surgery that will keep him out of action for up to nine months, the team said on Wednesday.
Santner suffered discomfort during the limited overs matches against England and had a scan, which revealed a bone defect. Further scans showed the injury had deteriorated and needed surgery that would keep him out for between six and nine months.
“On a personal level everyone feels for Mitchell,” New Zealand coach Mike Hesson said in a statement. “He’s a popular guy in the changing room and he’s well respected for the work he puts in for the side.
“Mitchell is a key player in all three formats for us, so we’ll certainly miss him in the upcoming series” he added.
