The BLACKCAPS selectors have named a settled line-up for the ANZ One Day International Series against world no.1 India starting in Napier on Sunday.
The 13 man squad for the five match ANZ ODI Series is identical to the one which drew the recent ODI series against the West Indies, with the exception of Auckland batsman Colin Munro who will return to play for his province.
General Manager National Selection Bruce Edgar says the players had been rewarded for a number of strong performances against the West Indies.
“It was pleasing to see every player stand up at some stage of that series and there were some simply outstanding efforts headlined by Corey Anderson’s world record one day ton.”
BLACKCAPS squad for ANZ ODI Series v India
Brendon McCullum (c) - Otago Volts
Corey Anderson - Northern Knights
Martin Guptill - Auckland Aces
Mitchell McClenaghan - Auckland Aces
Nathan McCullum - Otago Volts
Kyle Mills - Auckland Aces
Adam Milne - Central Stags
James Neesham - Otago Volts
Luke Ronchi - Wellington Firebirds
Jesse Ryder - Otago Volts
Tim Southee - Northern Knights
Ross Taylor - Central Stags
Kane Williamson - Northern Knights
Edgar says the BLACKCAPS now face one of their toughest challenges at home against a side ranked at the top in the 50 over game and no.2 in Tests.
“We know we’ll have to play out of our skins, and out match them player for player to be competitive against such a powerful side.”
“But we showed against the West Indies that we can play extremely well on our day and are capable of beating any side.”
BLACKCAPS Head Coach Mike Hesson says the team is fully aware of the challenges that lie ahead.
“Matching yourself against the best in the world is what you play international cricket for and I know the guys are buzzing about this opportunity.
“It’s also an important part of our build-up for next year’s World Cup where India are the defending champions.”
The BLACKCAPS squad for the two ANZ Test matches, which follow the ODI series, will be named in late January.
