WELLINGTON — All-rounder Grant Elliott has been recalled to the New Zealand one-day side after 14 months in the wilderness to be the surprise in its World Cup squad named Thursday. His inclusion comes at the expense of Jimmy Neesham who performed creditably in the Test series against Sri Lanka won by New Zealand 2-0 Wednesday.
Rising speedster Adam Milne won the fifth paceman's slot over Matt Henry in an otherwise predictable line-up which features veteran spinner Daniel Vettori, selected for his fifth World Cup, and seven members of the successful Test squad.
The 35-year-old Elliott, who has a batting average of 29.79 and has taken 30 wickets at 27.25 in 51 ODIs, last played for New Zealand against Sri Lanka in November 2013.
His recall appears to be recognition of an impressive season of domestic cricket, especially with the bat.
“Grant's inclusion assures us strong cover in the middle order. He brings a lot of experience and his record in New Zealand and Australia conditions is excellent,” coach Mike Hesson said.
The bowling unit is spearheaded by Test new ball pair Tim Southee and Trent Boult, backed by Kyle Mills, Mitchell McClenaghan and Adam Milne.
Milne was preferred over Henry because of his ability to intimidate with deliveries consistently above 150 kilometers per hour (93 miles per hour) although he does not have impressive wicket-taking figures.
Captain Brendon McCullum is expected to open the batting with Martin Guptill while Test opener Tom Latham will move to the middle-order and also provide back-up for wicketkeeper Luke Ronchi.
Squad: Brendon McCullum (captain), Corey Anderson, Trent Boult, Grant Elliott, Martin Guptill, Tom Latham, Mitchell McClenaghan, Nathan McCullum, Kyle Mills, Adam Milne, Luke Ronchi, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Daniel Vettori, Kane Williamson. — Reuters
