NZ add Astle and Neesham for last two IND ODIs

New Zealand team management has roped in all-rounder James Neesham and spinner Todd Astle for the last two ODIs against India. The hosts have already lost the first three games of the five-match ODI series.

Sodhi and Bracewell dropped for the last two ODIs

Astle will replace Ish Sodhi in the squad as the front-line spinner. Sodhi was effective against India in the second ODI and bowled well to prevent Indian batsmen from scoring big in the middle-overs. However, he was neutralized with ease by the Indians in the third ODI.

On the other hand Dough Bracewell had a tough time dealing with Indian top-order. He failed to pick wickets in the initial stages and also couldn’t keep the scoring rate in check.

Looking forward to see what Astle and Neesham bring to table: Larsen

Both Astle and Neesham were out of the team in recent times due to injury issues. However, both of them proved their fitness by featuring in the Super smash tournament.

New Zealand team selector Gavin Larsen said that Doug and Ish have been two of the brighter spots of the ODI series so far and the management has been encouraged by their performances against a quality Indian side.

At the same time he explained that it is great to welcome back the all-round skills of Jimmy and Todd and they are looking forward to seeing what they can bring to the series.

He noted that they are still looking to keep their options open with selections at this stage and ensure they continue to learn as much as they can about their players.

NZ squad for last two ODIs

Kane Williamson (capt), Todd Astle, Trent Boult, Colin de Grandhomme, Lockie Ferguson, Martin Guptill, Matt Henry, Tom Latham (wk), Colin Munro, James Neesham, Henry Nicholls, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor