New Zealand Cricket today confirmed that Daniel Vettori and Brendon McCullum are unavailable for selection for the first One-Day International against India in Guwahati.
Selector Mark Greatbatch said: “During the past week, Dan has complained of lower back stiffness and it has intensified during preparation for the One-Day series.
“Brendon suffered a back spasm at the start of the third Test against India and still has soreness so needs to get that right.
“We wanted to give them until this morning to see how they were but it’s clear they need a few more days to recover.
“We considered playing Brendon as a batsman only but that could delay his recovery so we took a longer term view. The extra rest gives him a chance of taking the gloves later in the series.
“They are both disappointed, however it does provide a wonderful opportunity for other players to step up.
“We’re confident the likes of Jamie How and Martin Guptill will make the most of their chance after forcing their way back into the side. Both guys are likely to open the batting and I’m sure they’ll make a good fist of it.
“Ross Taylor will get another opportunity to captain the side and Gareth Hopkins will keep wickets”.
Team for the first ODI:
Jamie How
Martin Guptill
Ross Taylor (captain)
Kane Williamson
Scott Styris
Grant Elliott
Nathan McCullum
Gareth Hopkins
Kyle Mills
Daryl Tuffey
Andy McKay
