Cricket
1News

Black Caps recall Neesham, Astle for final two India ODIs

January 29, 2019
One Day Cricket International, Malahide Cricket Club, Dublin 14/5/2017
Ireland vs New Zealand
New Zealand's Jimmy Neesham batting 
Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/Ryan Byrne / www.photosport.nz

The Black Caps' squad has been bolstered for the two remaining One Day Internationals against India, with all-rounders Jimmy Neesham and Todd Astle recalled into the side.

Following last night's seven wicket defeat defeat at Mount Maunganui's Bay Oval, the Black Caps selectors have opted to reinforce the side, with Neesham and Astle replacing Doug Bracewell and Ish Sodhi, respectively.

Neesham returns have starred in the ODI series whitewash against Sri Lanka, before the Wellington all-rounder suffered a grade-one hamstring strain.

Astle, meanwhile, hasn't played an ODI for the Black Caps since January 2018 but was meant to take part in November's series against Pakistan in the UAE, before a knee injury put those plans on hold.

Selector Gavin Larsen was adamant that although the two return to the side, the selections were not a punishment for the duo of Bracewell and Sodhi, two of New Zealand's brighter sparks in the current series defeat to India.

"It's great to welcome back the all-round skills of Jimmy and Todd and we're looking forward to seeing what they can bring to the series," he said.

"Doug and Ish have been two of the brighter spots of the ODI series so far and we've been encouraged by their performances against a quality Indian side.

"We're still looking to keep our options open with selections at this stage and ensure we continue to learn as much as we can about our players."

Black Caps squad: Kane Williamson (c), Todd Astle, Trent Boult, Colin de Grandhomme, Lockie Ferguson, Martin Guptill, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Colin Munro, Jimmy Neesham, Henry Nicholls, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor.

SHARE ME

More Stories