All-rounder Mitchell Santner, who is versatile, was ruled out of the first Twenty20 international match between New Zealand and Pakistan at Eden Park after testing positive for COVID-19. Starting with this encounter, the fourth-ranked Kiwis and third-placed Pakistan will engage in an exciting five-match series. Mitchell Santner has been placed in isolation at the team hotel. Mitchell Santner battled the infection in 2022, prior to the Ireland tour.
On January 14, he plans to travel independently and re-join the team for the second Twenty20 International in Hamilton. This new revelation adds a wrinkle to the match as New Zealand attempts to win at Eden Park against Pakistan’s charge without their main all-rounder.
After testing positive for COVID earlier today, Mitchell Santner Santner will not be attending this evening’s KFC T20I against Pakistan at Eden Park. In the upcoming days, he will be closely watched and make his own way home to Hamilton, according to a New Zealand Cricket statement.
Here’s what Blackcaps recently posted on ‘X’:
Mitch Santner won’t travel to Eden Park this evening for the opening KFC T20I against Pakistan after testing positive for COVID earlier today. He will continue to be monitored over the coming days and will travel solo home to Hamilton. #NZvPAK
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) January 12, 2024
The vacuum left by Mitchell Santner Santner disappearance New Zealand keeps trying to fill
In the Twenty20 International series against Pakistan, New Zealand suffered a major setback when the 31-year-old was ruled out due to a positive COVID test. After the test came back positive, the veteran all-rounder’s isolation technique followed the normal procedure that has been in place ever since the virus became famous in 2020. The sport is gradually getting back to its usual routine, but until the virus is completely eradicated, caution is still advised.
The bowling all-rounder’s crucial role in the T20I setup compounds the Kiwis’ loss. He showed his ability to bat and bowl, taking 105 wickets in 91 innings. His 610 runs scored served to highlight his significance as a left-handed batter. Not only does his absence create a vacuum in the team, but it also presents a chance for another player to assume the pivotal role in the much anticipated series. In the dynamic game of cricket, flexibility is essential, and New Zealand will need to adjust their approach without him.
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