The Northern Knights, fresh off their win in the HRV Twenty20 competition, have made minor tweaks for their return to Plunket Shield action in Napier against Central Districts.

The three-day match, starting tomorrow, sees Hamilton's Mitchell Santner returns to the team for the first time since 2011-12 following his stellar recent success in the Northern Districts ‘A' team program.

The Northern Knights in T20 action at Bay Oval earlier this month.

Santner scored 365 runs at an average of 45, as well as taking 12 wickets at 24 with his left arm spinners, at the national ‘A' team tournament. He joins forces with Blackcaps leggie Ish Sodhi for the match.

Santner's inclusion is one of four from the last Plunket Shield match in December. BJ Watling and Sodhi return as they were on international duty in December, and Anurag Verma is now free from injury.

Wicket keeper Cameron Fletcher makes way for Watling, while Anton Devcich, Jono Boult and Jono Hickey have all been omitted.

The Blackcap trio of Corey Anderson, Tim Southee and Kane Williamson remain away from the side as they face India, while Trent Boult is managing a thigh injury.

It has been a good month for the Northern Knights with many outstanding performances in the 'A” team program adding real depth to the list.

Along with Santner's form, James Baker took seven wickets in an innings, Hickey made a double-century, Bharat Popli a big century, Verma has returned from injury bowling good pace, and Brett Hampton has reminded selectors of his considerable all-round talents.

At the half-way mark of the Plunket Shield the Northern Knights face an uphill, but not insurmountable challenge to take the second of the three titles on offer.

The Knights are currently fifth with 32 points, 30 adrift from ladder leader the Canterbury Wizards.

Northern Knights to face the Central Stags in Napier:

Daniel Flynn © - Bay of Plenty

Graeme Aldridge – Bay of Plenty

James Baker – Hamilton

Joe Carter – Bay of Plenty

Scott Kuggeleijn – Hamilton

Daryl Mitchell – Hamilton

Bharat Popli – Bay of Plenty

Mitchell Santner – Hamilton

Ish Sodhi – Counties Manukau

Anurag Verma – Hamilton

BJ Watling – Hamilton

Brad Wilson – Northland