Santner, Ronchi huge positives for us: Williamson

Tribune News Service

KANPUR, September 26

Notwithstanding the 197-run defeat in its opening Test, New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson said the all-round performance by Mitchell Santner on his maiden visit to India was a huge positive for the side.

“He played outstandingly well. It’s his first time in this part of the world playing Test cricket and it was a great step in the right direction. We all know he has got the talent with bat and ball and to apply himself like he did is certainly a huge positive for us,” said Williamson.

Santner played a fighting 71-run knock in the second innings against the dominant spinners. Earlier in the first innings, he had contributed vital 32 runs to the  total. The left-hander also took five wickets in the match, albeit in a losing cause. Williamson also appreciated Luke Ronchi’s effort with the bat. The captain though admitted that it was a bit disappointing to lose from a dominating position. “Whenever you lose, it’s disappointing. But credit certainly has to go to India. They are a good side, particularly in their home conditions and they showed it once again,” he said.

The Kiwis were cruising at 152/1 on Day Two in response to India’s first innings total of 318 before folding up on 262 on the third day. “There were a couple of moments when the game turned in their favour. The back end of our first innings with the bat and certainly when we bowled in the second innings…there was probably a three-hour period where we didn’t bowl well and they got away from us,” he said. 

Craig out, Patel in

Off-spinner Mark Craig was ruled out of the Test series due to a side strain and was replaced by Jeetan Patel.