New Zealand vs India, 2019: New Zealand announce squad for final two ODIs
New Zealand has announced their squad for the last two ODIs against India. The Black Caps have drafted in all-rounder Jimmy Neesham and Todd Astle in place of Doug Bracewell and Ish Sodhi respectively.
The duo missed out on the squad list due to respective injury setbacks, but have now fought their way back into the side after having proved their fitness in the domestic circuit.
Against quite a few expectations, New Zealand has succumbed to three losses on the spin; all of them being comprehensive defeats. Their top order has significantly failed while the problems against slower bowlers continue. In the bowling department as well, Trent Boult and Co. haven't looked like strangling the Indian batting order even once.
With a couple of games to go, only pride is at stake, as far as the hosts are concerned. With the likes of Virat Kohli rested, it is the right opportunity for the Kiwis to salvage their reputation as a top cricketing unit.
We assumed a few changes for sure, and after having seen off a hamstring and a knee strain respectively, Neesham and 32-year-old Astle are into the squad.
Gavin Larsen, national selector, remarked:
"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."
He spoke about the incoming players as well, affirming:
"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. 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."
While the fourth ODI will be played on the last day of this month at Hamilton, the final ODI is scheduled for February 3 at Wellington.
New Zealand squad: Kane Williamson (c), Todd Astle, Trent Boult, Colin de Grandhomme, Lockie Ferguson, Martin Guptill, Matt Henry, Tom Latham (wk), Colin Munro, Jimmy Neesham, Henry Nicholls, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor
Follow Sportskeeda for all the updates on Cricket news, schedule, points table, live scores, fantasy cricket tips and stats.