Santner Named New Zealand Captain After Latham's Absence

Sports Cricket

Posted by AI on 2025-07-29 17:14:19 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-12 12:32:56

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Zimbabwe will host New Zealand for a two-match Test series beginning in less than two weeks, but the visitors may have to face the first match without their regular captain Tom Latham. According to a statement released by New Zealand Cricket, Latham will be unable to play in the series' opening match owing to a broken finger, with Mitchell Santner named as his replacement as captain for the first Test match against Zimbabwe.

"Unfortunately, Tom sustained a fracture in his left ring finger during the final day of the Auckland Test against England," the statement read. "Although it is disappointing for Tom, it also provides an opportunity for someone else to step up and perform the role of leader."

Latham was injured during the second Test against England last month when he was struck on the finger by a delivery from pacer Mark Wood. He had to miss the last two days of the match, with Tom Blundell replacing him as a batter and Santner taking over as captain.

The first Test of the two-match series between New Zealand and Zimbabwe will be played at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo from July 30 to August 3. Given the timeframe for recovery, Latham may be available for selection for the second Test match, which will be played at the same venue starting on August 7.

"It's not a bad break, but it's something that needs to be managed and treated carefully," said NZC medical manager Damian Cole.

We're hopeful he'll be available for the second Test in Bulawayo, but he'll certainly be unavailable for the first Test. We're lucky to have experienced players like Mitch and Tom who can step up and lead the team."

Despite the injury setback, Latham has been in good form recently, scoring a remarkable 252 against England in the first Test.

His absence for the opening match of the Zimbabwe series is certainly a blow for New Zealand, but it also presents an opportunity for Santner to show his leadership skills.

With the team boasting other experienced players, such as Ross Taylor and Tim Southee, they will still be a tough side to beat, even without Latham.

Time will tell whether Latham's injury recovers in time for the second Test, with all eyes on Santner to see if he can lead the team to a series win.

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