New Zealand all-rounder Mitchell Santner tests COVID positive ahead of Ireland tour

Auckland: New Zealand have suffered a blow ahead of their white-ball tour of Ireland as veteran all-rounder Mitchell Santner has tested positive to Covid-19.

"Mitchell Santner will miss Sunday’s team flight to Ireland after testing positive for Covid-19 on Friday," New Zealand Cricket (NZC) said in a statement on Sunday.

The Black Caps ODI squad were due to fly out of New Zealand on Sunday. Santner, who will captain the Kiwis during the T20I part of the series - will remain at home ahead of three T20I and three ODIS against Ireland.

"Santner’s departure will be delayed until later in the week once he has recovered and tests negative ahead of the series opener that begins July 10," the board said.

Head coach for the series against Ireland Shane Jurgensen said Santner was experiencing minor symptoms and his availability for the series would be determined once he arrives in Dublin.

"Covid has been a challenge and will continue to be in the future and we will adapt accordingly, contingencies are always in place,” he said.

"He’s feeling ok and the priority will be getting him into camp with us hopefully later in the week to assess where he’s at and when he may be ready to play. We’ve got 11 games across the three tours and another tour to follow against the West Indies in August which Mitch will be involved with so we certainly won’t be looking to rush him." (UNI)