Mitchell Santner Steps Up as New Zealand's Test Captain Against Zimbabwe

Mitchell Santner Takes the Helm for New Zealand's Test Team

Auckland [New Zealand], July 29: In a significant development, Mitchell Santner has been appointed as the 32nd captain of New Zealand's men's Test cricket team. This change comes as the regular captain, Tom Latham, is sidelined due to a shoulder injury sustained during a domestic T20 match in England, according to the ICC's official website.

Despite his injury, Latham will remain with the team, aiming to regain fitness in time for the second Test against Zimbabwe.

Having accumulated 1,066 runs and taken 74 wickets in his 30 Test appearances, Santner steps into this leadership role following a successful T20I Tri-Series in Harare, where the Black Caps went unbeaten in the group stage.

Rob Walter, the head coach of New Zealand, expressed his regret over Latham's absence but showed confidence in Santner's capabilities. He stated, “Losing a captain like Tom Latham, who is not only a world-class opener but also a fantastic team player, is unfortunate. However, we are committed to ensuring he is fit for the second Test.”

Walter also mentioned, “We will keep evaluating the situation to determine if a replacement is needed, but we are optimistic about Latham's recovery.” He praised Santner's recent performance with the T20 squad, emphasizing that while the formats differ, Santner commands respect among his teammates and will have the support of seasoned Test players.

The New Zealand squad for the first Test includes: Mitchell Santner (c), Tom Blundell, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Matt Fisher, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Will O’Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Michael Bracewell, Rachin Ravindra, Nathan Smith, and Will Young.