The BLACKCAPS squad for the two National Bank Series tests against the West Indies is:
Daniel Vettori (c)
Jamie How
Tim McIntosh
Daniel Flynn
Ross Taylor
Jesse Ryder
Jacob Oram
Brendon McCullum
James Franklin
Mark Gillespie
Iain O’Brien
Jeetan Patel
Head of the selection panel Glenn Turner, said Auckland batsman Tim McIntosh had played his way into the side with strong batting performances in the State Championship and tour match against the West Indies.
“James Franklin’s return to form as an all-rounder has also been good news,” said Turner. “With Jacob Oram able to bat and returning after injury we’re in the fortunate position of having both our leading all-rounders available.” Oram, currently playing for the State Central Stags in Napier, will join the squad in Dunedin at the conclusion of his State Championship match.
Jeetan Patel has been brought into the squad as a second specialist spin bowler. “His inclusion gives us the option of a stronger spin attack, depending on pitch conditions at University Oval.”
Turner said the selectors felt Chris Martin would benefit from more cricket at the domestic level while rebuilding his skill fitness after injury. “Mark Gillespie has shown good recent form, bowling a lot of overs and taking eight wickets in his last match – he becomes our strike bowler in this series.”
