Ferguson and Worker added to ODI squad | Patel called in as cover for Astle

Ajaz Patel looks set to debut in another format for the BLACKCAPS, after being called into the one-day squad to play Pakistan in the UAE this week.
 
The 30-year-old left arm spinner has been added as cover for leg-spinner Todd Astle who has an irritated right knee.
 
BLACKCAPS coach Gary Stead described Astle as a fifty-fifty chance of playing the first game on Wednesday, but hoped he would be available later in the series.
 
“Todd’s made good progress over the past couple of days and with his involvement in both the ODI and Test squads; we’re keen to give him every chance to be right,” said Stead.
 
“It does present another opportunity for Ajaz. He’s impressed us during the UAE tour so far and we have full confidence he can do a job for this team in the 50-over format.”
 
Tour Schedule
 
The other additions to the ODI squad sees Lockie Ferguson claim the fourth pace bowlers spot, while Central Stags batsman George Worker will open in place of Martin Guptill, who was earlier ruled out of the tour with injury.
 
“Lockie possesses raw pace and offers something different to the other three quicks in the squad who are predominantly new ball bowlers,” said Stead.
 
“He’s performed well over the past 12 months and we’re hoping he can bring some real aggression to those middle overs in the innings.
 
“George has been knocking on the door for a while and has hardly put a foot wrong in the chances he has had with the BLACKCAPS. We know he’s a quality player and this series will be a good test of where he is at,” Stead added.
 
All-rounder Corey Anderson wasn’t considered for selection after missing the BLACKCAPS third T20I with an injured heel. He will return home for further investigations by a specialist.
 
The BLACKCAPS open their three-game one-day series against Pakistan in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday.
 
BLACKCAPS ODI Squad
Kane Williamson (c)
Todd Astle
Trent Boult
Colin de Grandhomme
Lockie Ferguson *
Matt Henry
Tom Latham
Colin Munro
Henry Nicholls
Ajaz Patel *
Ish Sodhi
Tim Southee
Ross Taylor
BJ Watling
George Worker *
 
* Added to initial squad