Hamilton: Northern Knights, New Zealand's T20 champions, have replaced Daniel Vettori with another left-arm spinner for the upcoming Champions League T20 tournament.
Vettori, who withdrew from the squad due to family health issues, has been replaced by 22-year-old Mitchell Santner. He was impressive for Northern Districts in the four-day campaign last summer. He also adds high value with the bat and can play anywhere in the order.
The Champions League Technical Committee approved the Knights' request to replace Vettori. Speaking to stuff.co.nz, Northern Knights head coach said, "Mitch was very close to selection for our original 15, missing out purely because we had a luxurious abundance of experienced spin bowlers in Daniel, Anton Devcich, Ish Sodhi and Jono Boult."
He also added, "While we all feel for Dan, we are delighted to be able to now offer a tremendous opportunity for a very talented young man."
Northern Knights revised squad: Daniel Flynn (captain), Graeme Aldridge, Jono Boult, Trent Boult, Anton Devcich, Daniel Harris, Scott Kuggeleijn, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Scott Styris, BJ Watling, Kane Williamson, Brad Wilson.