NZ vs AUS 2025: Santner doubtful; Phillips, O'Rourke, Allen ruled out

New Zealand have suffered a huge blow in the form of white-ball captain Mitchell Santner requiring abdominal surgery after returning from the UK, following his participation in the Hundred Men's 2025. The recovery period is being stated of around one month, which leaves a question mark on his participation in the T20I series against Australia.

New Zealand's head coach Rob Walter commented on the importance of having Santner in the side. Despite not confirming anything regarding the timeframe of his recovery, he was hopeful that the bowling all-rounder would be fit in time to play Australia.

"Mitch is a world-class player and a crucial part of our T20 side from a skills and leadership point of view. With that in mind, we expect to name him in our squad when we announce it in a couple of weeks' time, and from there, we can assess how his rest and rehabilitation progresses following surgery, before making a call on the eve of the series," stated Walter, as quoted by Cricbuzz.

Injuries to Glenn Phillips, Will O’Rourke and Finn Allen come as massive setbacks too. Phillips has had to extend his rehabilitation from a groin injury that forced him out of the recent Zimbabwe series. A stress fracture to O’Rourke's back meant that he will be undergoing a strength & conditioning programme before being reassessed. It has been confirmed that Allen will be out for three months following a surgery on his right foot.

Walter expressed sympathy towards O'Rourke and was confident that the tall pacer will come back fitter and more determined. He also spoke on how unfortunate it was to not have Phillips and Allen as part of the team. However, Walter shed light on the positives of other players getting opportunities in the absence of the three. 

"We're really feeling for Will at the moment and wishing him speedy recovery. He's had such an impressive start to his career and so naturally it is disappointing when an injury like this comes along, but he's a resilient guy and determined to put the work in and come back stronger. It's disappointing to lose the services of Glenn and Finn who have played important batting roles in our T20 set up in recent times. Like in Zimbabwe, their unavailability will present opportunities for others to put their hands up in what's going to be a hugely exciting and important series against Australia," added Walter.

Former New Zealand batter Tom Bruce to debut for Scotland

Also Read

Former New Zealand batter Tom Bruce to debut for Scotland

New Zealand have a run of white-ball contests in the near future. They will be playing Australia (three T20Is), England (three T20Is, three ODIs) and West Indies (five T20Is, three ODIs) from October 1 to November 22.