New Zealand have recalled fast bowler Hamish Bennett for this month's T20I series against India.
Bennett has not played international cricket since 2017, but has been named in a squad that is without the injured Lockie Ferguson and Trent Boult.
Before the five T20Is against New Zealand, India are contesting three ODIs against Australia.
‘Bennett back in the fold'
“We're delighted to have Hamish back in the fold for what will be a huge series against India. Over the past few seasons he's consistently been one of the top domestic white-ball bowlers and we've been impressed how he's been able to evolve his game,” said selector Gavin Larsen.
“We all know he brings good pace and bounce but it's the clever variations he's added that make him such a well-rounded T20 bowler.”
The inexperienced Daryl Mitchell has also been selected. Fellow all-rounder Jimmy Neesham has not been picked by New Zealand. He will, instead, play for New Zealand A against India A.
“The next few weeks will be really intense for our elite male cricketers and we're fully aware of the challenges ahead We're clearly wanting to win the series in front of us while also considering our wider ICC T20 World Cup campaign plan,” added Larsen.
“We see both Daryl and Jimmy as important all-rounders in the T20 format. With a travelling squad of just 13 and the need to balance the options for the series, Daryl gets this opportunity against India as a reward for his consistent form for the Black Caps.”
Meanwhile, all-rounder Sophie Devine has been named New Zealand's captain for the Women's T20 World Cup. She has replaced new mother Amy Satterthwaite.
“This is a team I'm deeply passionate about and to have the opportunity to help drive its future is a privilege,” said Devine.
“It's an exciting time for women's cricket in this country – a fresh direction with our new coach Bob Carter and T20 World Cup coming up. We've got a good mix of talent and experience in the group and I'm looking forward to leaning on my fellow senior players to try and build on the good work.”
