BLACKCAPS squad for the third ODI of The National Bank Series

New Zealand Cricket today announced the squad for the third One-Day International of The National Bank Series at AMI Stadium in Christchurch.

The squad is:

Ross Taylor (c) – Central Stags
Hamish Bennett – Canterbury Wizards
Martin Guptill – Auckland Aces
Jamie How – Central Stags
Brendon McCulllum – Otago Volts
Nathan McCullum – Otago Volts
Kyle Mills – Auckland Aces
Jacob Oram – Central Stags
Tim Southee – Northern Knights
Scott Styris – Northern Knights
Kane Williamson – Northern Knights
Luke Woodcock – Wellington Firebirds

Selector Mark Greatbatch said: “We think it’s important for everyone in the World Cup squad to get a run before they head to India.

“Normally the selection panel would pick a squad for two matches but because of the short game in Wellington and the rained out match in Queenstown we wanted some flexibility.

“Luke Woodcock comes into the squad and deserves his place after playing so well for Wellington over a number of seasons. It’s important he gets some exposure to international cricket and I’m sure he will make the most of the opportunity when he gets his chance.

“Kyle Mills is a proven performer at international level and will slot back into the squad with Jesse Ryder and James Franklin going back to play domestic cricket.”

Ross Taylor will captain the side while Daniel Vettori will stay with the team but is not part of the 12 selected for the match in Christchurch. James Franklin and Jesse Ryder will be available for Wellington Firebirds one-day match against the Northern Knights on Sunday 30 January.

ENDS

BLACKCAPS v Pakistan National Bank ODI Series:
Saturday 22 January - Westpac Stadium, Wellington - 2:00pm
Wednesday 26 January - Queenstown Events Centre, Queenstown - 11:00am
Saturday 29 January - AMI Stadium, Christchurch - 2:00pm
Tuesday 1 February - McLean Park, Napier - 2:00pm
Thursday 3 February - Seddon Park, Hamilton - 2:00pm
Saturday 5 February - Eden Park, Auckland - 12:00noon