Surrey rope in Mitchell Santner for T20 Vitality Blast
What's the story
Surrey have announced the signing of New Zealand's white-ball skipper, Mitchell Santner, for the majority of the upcoming T20 Vitality Blast season.
The strategic move is aimed at bolstering their spin attack, which previously relied on Dan Lawrence, Cameron Steel, and Will Jacks.
Meanwhile, Santner's addition provides a significant boost as he has 213 appearances in this format under his belt.
Here's more.
Schedule
Santner's availability and IPL commitments
Santner will be available for eight group-stage matches and possibly the knockouts in September, if Surrey qualify.
However, as he is playing for Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL), he will join Surrey only after the IPL ends.
Despite international commitments possibly making him miss some group stages, Santner is likely to return for the knockout rounds.
Anticipation
Santner expresses excitement about joining Surrey
Santner said he was excited to join Surrey.
"I'm really looking forward to connecting with the players and coaching staff at Surrey," he said according to ESPNcicinfo.
Santner added, "I've heard quality things about the environment and have thoroughly enjoyed playing at the Kia Oval previously."
Meanwhile, having played against many of his new teammates, Santner is looking forward to sharing experiences and playing some entertaining cricket.
Praise
Stewart lauds Santner's skills and experience
Surrey's high-performance cricket advisor Alec Stewart also praised Santner's skills and experience.
"Mitch will bring quality and experience to the Surrey side," he said.
He further highlighted that Santner is a proven international cricketer who plays T20 cricket around the world and has an excellent skill set.
Additionally, this endorsement highlights the high expectations from Santner for the upcoming season.
Notably, Santner will play alongside his international team-mate Nathan Smith at The Oval.
T20 numbers
Santner's T20 stats in brief
Across 213 T20 matches, (207 innings), the spinner owns 216 wickets at an average of 23.79.
He also owns an economy rate of 7.20 alongside three four-wicket hauls.
Additionally, his best bowling innings and match figures read 4/11.
120 of his T20 scalps have come for New Zealand in T20Is. He averages 22.17 for NZ.