Picture Credit: Twitter/Blackcaps
New Zealand Cricket team have been handed a major blow ahead of the second Test against England, set to be played from June 10 onwards at Edgbaston. Skipper Kane Williamson, who sustained a left elbow injury, has notably not fully recovered and is being monitored by the medical team of the Black Caps. The final decision on the availability of Williamson for the game is set to be taken on Thursday.
Mitchell Santner ruled out of second Test
To add to the problems for the Kiwis, all-rounder Mitchell Santner has been ruled out of the Edgbaston Test as a result of a cut on his left index finger. With the wicket expected to offer some assistance to spinners, left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel could replace Santner in the second Test.
Trent Boult likely to return
The positive for New Zealand going into the second Test is that their strike bowler Trent Boult is most likely to get back into the playing XI in Edgbaston. The New Zealand team confirmed today that at least one of the pacers, who played at Lord's (Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, Kyle Jamieson) will miss the second Test. With the WTC Final just a few days away, the Kiwis could also include someone like Matt Henry to give rest to the other bowlers.