The Black Caps all-rounder Mitchell Santner has been ruled out of New Zealand's tour of southern Africa after breaking his thumb in training.
Mitchell Santner. Photo: Photosport
The 23-year-old Northern Districts player was preparing for the tour at New Zealand Cricket's High Performance Centre in Christchurch on Monday when he was hit while fielding the ball off his own bowling.
Santner will be replaced in the squad by Central Districts player George Worker for the limited overs series against Zimbabwe and South Africa.
"We feel for Mitch because he was really excited about this tour and we were looking forward to seeing him continue his development in international cricket," said New Zealand coach Mike Hesson.
"It is unfortunate but at the same time it presents George with his first opportunity... and we are confident that he'll fit in well."
George Worker Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Santner impressed on New Zealand's tour of England in June, and with the 23-year-old capable of left-arm spin and competent batting, he has been considered capable of filling the role Daniel Vettori occupied in the side for 18 years before retiring after the World Cup final in March.
Worker, 25, a top-order left-handed batsman who also bowls orthodox left-arm spin, was the leading run-scorer in New Zealand's domestic one-day competition last season.
New Zealand will play three one-day internationals and a Twenty20 match in Zimbabwe from August the 2nd, before facing South Africa in two Twenty20 matches and three one-dayers.