Major names return for New Zealand's series against England

Black Caps T20I skipper Mitchell Santner and all-rounder Rachin Ravindra are back in the New Zealand lineup for the upcoming home assignment against England.

Both players had missed the recent T20I series against neighbouring rivals Australia.

While Santner returns to lead the side after having recovered from an abdominal surgery, Ravindra also makes his comeback after having missed cricket due to a facial injury.

Meanwhile, star batter Kane Williamson will miss the T20Is against England due to a minor medical issue, but targets a return for the following ODI series.

Head coach Rob Walter hoped that Williamson recovered in time for New Zealand's future engagements.

"Kane had to overcome a minor medical issue in the past month, and we agreed he needs some more time to get himself physically ready to return," he said.

“He’s obviously a world class player and we’re hoping these two weeks will ensure he’s ready for the ODIs against England and the following tour by West Indies."

Further, Pacer Ben Sears is missing from the lineup following a left hamstring injury during training last week.

Finn Allen (foot), Adam Milne (ankle), Will O’Rourke (back), Glenn Phillips (groin), and Lockie Ferguson (hamstring), were all unavailable due to injury.

New Zealand's pace bowling group would comprise of Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, and Jimmy Neesham. Along with Santner, Michael Bracewell would lead the spin department, with experienced Ish Sodhi missing out.

Wicket-keeper-batter Tim Seifert will don the gloves.

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