Santner retains place in New Zealand Test squad

Spinning all-rounder Mitchell Santner has been named in New Zealand's 12-man Test squad for the upcoming series with Sri Lanka after impressing against Australia.

Santner was called up to replace Matt Henry for the first day/night Test in Adelaide and finished with debut figures of 2-62 as the Black Caps were beaten by three wickets.

The display was enough retain his place for the two Tests with Sri Lanka in Dunedin and Hamilton, with Martin Guptill and Mark Craig also retained despite their recent struggles.

Guptill only managed 82 runs at the top of the order in the three matches with Australia, while spinner Craig took eight wickets at 64.12.

There is no place for Henry, Mitchell McClenaghan, Luke Ronchi or Hamish Rutherford, though, as coach Mike Hesson trims his squad.

"The level of composure Mitchell showed on debut was very impressive and he certainly displayed how exciting a player he is with both the bat and ball," Hesson said of Santner.

"His ability to bat in the top six and bowl good overs gives us options and assists the team balance. We're looking forward to watching Mitchell's continued development.

"Mark and Martin didn't perform to the level they would have liked over in Australia, but both have shown in the past what they're capable of and we're confident they'll make valuable contributions in the upcoming series.

"We think it's a strong squad, but equally we've got a group of players on the fringe of selection who are ready to be called upon if necessary."

New Zealand Test squad in full: Brendon McCullum (captain), Trent Boult, Doug Bracewell, Mark Craig, Martin Guptill, Tom Latham, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling, Kane Williamson