Mitchell Santner To Miss Out Due To Injury? New Zealand's Probable XI For 3rd Test vs India
Mitchell Santner against India [Source: @BLACKCAPS/X.com]
India are all set to take on New Zealand in the third and final Test at the Wankhede Association Stadium in Mumbai on Friday, November 1, starting at 9:30 AM. This match is crucial for both teams, and Rohit Sharma and his squad will hope to do everything possible to avoid a series whitewash in Mumbai.
On the other hand, the BlackCaps, who have already secured their historic series win. They will now aim to do the unthinkable this time: a 3-0 whitewash against India. Ahead of the final Test, New Zealand captain Tom Latham will be focused on bringing a strongest playing XI against the Men in Blue. To which, Latham might stick with the star spinner Mitchell Santner, who has been a significant threat to India's batting order.
In the latest news, Santner is doubtful due to experiencing a side strain in his back; however, if he is fit, he might play.
The left-arm off-spinner impressed everyone with his skills by claiming 13 wickets at the MCA Stadium, helping the Kiwis achieve their first-ever series win against India after 38 years. He dominated India's batting line-up in both innings.
As per the reports, the pitch at the Wankhede Staidum is expected to favour spinners, with India requesting a spin-friendly surface. This pitch could play into Mitch Santner's hands, as he has already shown his ability to exploit the India strong batting lineup.
The Kiwis are likely to stick with the same winning combination from the previous Test if Santner is fit; otherwise, they may make changes. Apart from this, no other changes are expected in the squad. The Kiwis are determined to continue their winning streak and finish the series on a high note.
NZ's Probable XI For 3rd Test vs IND
Tom Latham (c), Devon Conway, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Tom Blundell (wk), Mitchell Santner, William O'Rourke, Tim Southee, Ajaz Patel