New Zealand have been dealt a huge setback with white-ball captain Mitchell Santner ruled out for at least a month after medical scans confirmed a grade three ACL injury in his left shoulder. The development comes as a crucial blow in the Blackcaps’ international calendar as they head into an important stretch of fixtures.
He picked up the injury while fielding during an Indian Premier League (IPL) clash, where he was representing the Mumbai Indians. The incident occurred as Santner attempted a diving effort in the field, resulting in an awkward landing that impacted both his shoulder and head.
“BLACKCAPS all-rounder and white-ball captain Mitchell Santner is set to be sidelined for at least a month after scans revealed a grade three ACL shoulder injury."
“Santner injured his left shoulder while fielding for his Indian Premier League side, the Mumbai Indians, in their recent match against the Chennai Super Kings [on April 23]. The 34-year-old returned home to New Zealand this week and saw a specialist this morning who confirmed a rest and rehabilitation period of at least one month,” a NZC press release said.
Santner’s absence will be felt badly as he is set to miss New Zealand’s upcoming one-off Test against Ireland later this month, as well as the opening Test of the three-match series against England beginning in early June. According to NZC, Santner's availability for the remainder of the England tour will depend on his recovery progress and will be reassessed closer to the dates.