Corey Anderson Returns to New Zealand Squad for India Tour

Corey Anderson last played for New Zealand during the World T20 in India in March.

The all-rounder will play as a specialist batsman in the five-match ODI series. (Photo: IANS)

New Zealand on Monday recalled temperamental all-rounder Corey Anderson for the five-match ODI series against India next month and he will play as a specialist batsman.

Experienced pacer Tim Southee, who was ruled out of the forthcoming Test series against India after straining an ankle ligament, has found a place in the 15-member squad. Henry Nicholls, who is part of the five-day game squad, has been dropped.

Batsman Anton Devcich, all-rounder Jimmy Neesham and wicketkeeper BJ Watling have also been recalled to the squad for the series beginning in Dharamsala on October 16. Anderson last played an international game for New Zealand during the World T20 in India, before a back injury ruled him out of the tours of Zimbabwe and South Africa.

He proved his fitness in three matches for New Zealand XI against Emerging XI at Christchurch last week. New Zealand Cricket selector Gavin Larsen said Anderson’s rehab would continue to be monitored and praised the all-rounder for his work ethic.

Corey’s superb professionalism throughout his rehab process has led to this point, and it’s a credit to him and the hard work he’s put in. We’re excited to have Corey back. He provides power through the middle-order and knows the conditions in India well. He’s still working on his bowling and we’ll continue to monitor that; but for this series, he will be used solely as a specialist batsman. 

Gavin Larsen, New Zealand selector

Anderson last played an international match during the World T20 tournament in India in March. (Photo: Reuters)

Though Nicholls was dropped from the squad, Larsen said the Kiwis still have a number of options in the middle-order.

Indian conditions are known to be quite harsh, so it’s really important that we have cover for all positions. Luke Ronchi and BJ Watling provide us with wicket-keeping and middle-order cover, while Anton is another spin option for us and can bat anywhere in the order.

“The last time we played ODIs was in the Chappell-Hadlee series and victory there helped us reach the world number two ranking. We obviously want to keep growing on that and this series is another massive challenge for us,” Larsen said.

Mitchell McClenaghan, Adam Milne, Colin Munro and George Worker were all unavailable for selection due to injury.

New Zealand squad:

Kane Williamson (captain), Corey Anderson, Trent Boult, Doug Bracewell, Anton Devcich, Martin Guptill, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, James Neesham, Luke Ronchi, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, BJ Watlin.

(With inputs from PTI)