Black Caps all-rounder Mitchell Santner has been ruled out of the first Test against Australia, starting Friday in Wellington.
The 24-year-old's still bothered by the foot injury that came on in Wellington last week and prevented him from playing in last night's series winning Chappell-Hadlee ODI in Hamilton.
Mark Craig will join the squad for the first Test.
Black Caps coach Mike Hesson said it was disappointing for the in-form Santner.
"It's unfortunate for Mitch as he’s been a key player for us so far this summer," said Hesson.
"The positive news is that we picked it up early and hopefully Mitch can make a quick recovery."
Mark Craig has been called into the squad (Photosport)
Santner has been one of New Zealand's best in the first two games of the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy series.
Unbeaten scores of 35 and 45 have added important momentum in both innings while his left-arm spin has been effective.
Santner claimed two wickets with his only two balls in the 159-run win in Auckland and his 3-47 at Wellington were the best figures of any bowler from either team.
Newshub.
