Santner named as Black Caps look to spin for Sri Lanka Tests

New Zealand has named four front-line spinners for its two-Test series against Sri Lanka next month.

Mitchell Santner last played a Test for the Black Caps in December 2017, but the left-arm spinner is part of a squad that also includes Todd Astle, Ajaz Patel and Will Somerville.

Mitchell Santner has been named by New Zealand as one of four spinners in a 15-man squad for its two-Test series against Sri Lanka in August.

Santner last played a Test for the Black Caps in December 2017, but the left-arm spinner is part of a squad that also includes Todd Astle, Ajaz Patel and Will Somerville.

New Zealand is readying itself for spin-friendly conditions in Galle and Colombo in a series that also marks the beginning of its ICC World Test Championship campaign.

Black Caps head coach Gary Stead said he would consider playing three spinners in the same XI against Sri Lanka.

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"Playing three spinners is an option in Sri Lankan conditions and we believe this group provides the best variations and skill mix on offer," he said on Monday.

"It was an incredible time for the team and the country, but we're now excited to move forward as a group and sink our teeth into another opportunity."

The first Test between New Zealand and Sri Lanka begins in Galle on August 14.