South Africa vs New Zealand: 3rd Test, 5 Talking Points

Modified Mar 29, 2017 11:34 IST

HAMILTON, NEW ZEALAND - MARCH 29: Ground staff supervised by reserve umpire Chris Brown (top) adjust the covers as rain delays the start of day five of the Test match between New Zealand and South Africa at Seddon Park on March 29, 2017 in Hamilton, New Zealand. (Photo by Dave Rowland/Getty Images) — New Zealand did not get a chance to bowl out South Africa on day 5 due to rain

#4 Jeetan Patel vs Mitchell Santner

HAMILTON, NEW ZEALAND - MARCH 28: Mitchell Santner of New Zealand bats during day four of the Test match between New Zealand and South Africa at Seddon Park on March 28, 2017 in Hamilton, New Zealand. (Photo by Dave Rowland/Getty Images) — Santner has not quite lived up to his reputation as an all-rounder in Tests

The Patel-Santner debate has no end. While three months back, Santner was deemed good enough to be the primary spinner for a series of India, Jeetan Patel has suddenly stepped up and shown some serious skills to come back into the reckoning.

While age is a factor in considering Santner ahead of Patel, the latter has put up a real fine display in recent times. Meanwhile, Santner has been patchy with the bat - batting is one reason he is in ahead of Patel - and mediocre with the ball.

There is no doubting that the future lies with Santner but Patel seems to be enjoying a rather late golden period, and it would be a harsh call to drop him after his recent performances for the New Zealand Test side. Given his experience in England conditions and recent exploits in the ODIs, a Champions Trophy in June does not seem far fetched.

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Edited by Staff Editor