Tom Latham : Santner, who captained New Zealand in the first Test, will also lead the side in the second Test.
New Zealand’s regular Test captain Tom Latham will not play in the second Test against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo, as the left-handed opener has failed to recover from a shoulder injury.
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Tom Latham : This setback for the second Test is another big blow apart from Nathan Smith and Will O’Rourke being injured. Head coach Rob Walter expressed his sadness at Latham’s absence and revealed the real reason for him not playing in the second match.
According to the ICC, Walter said, “It is extremely disappointing to see Tom injured again. He was working hard and preparing well for the second Test, but unfortunately, he was unable to pass his fitness test today. He is very disappointed that he will not be able to take the field, and we feel very sorry for him.”
Tom Latham : Mitchell Santner will remain captain
Mitchell Santner, who led New Zealand in the first Test and became the team’s 32nd Test captain, will continue in his role in the second match as well.
Auckland Aces batsman Bevon Jacobs has been included in the squad as fielding and batting cover. The 23-year-old was playing club cricket in Johannesburg and reached Bulawayo in short order. “With Tom being ruled out on the eve of the match, we needed an extra player immediately,” Walter said. “Thankfully, Bevon was playing in Johannesburg and reached Bulawayo in short order.”
Jacobs made his debut for the Black Caps in the recently concluded tri-series between Zimbabwe and South Africa. The 23-year-old has played three T20 Internationals so far. Jacobs will join the squad along with Ben Lister and Zachary Faulks for the second Test.
New Zealand easily defeated Zimbabwe in the first Test match played on the same ground. Matt Henry was named Player of the Match for his nine wickets (6/39 in 15.3 overs and 3/51 in 21 overs).
