“We’re pleased with the overall 15 we’ve chosen”

Image courtesy of: ESPNcricinfo

New Zealand have omitted all-rounder James Neesham from their World Cup squad in favour of Grant Elliot, who has not played an ODI since November 2013.

Pace bowler Matt Henry, who was part of New Zealand’s squad for the recent ODI series against Pakistan, also failed to make the cut.

This being said, New Zealand still possess a strong pace attack, which consists of Tim Southee, Trent Boult, Mitchell McClenaghan, Adam Milne and Kyle Mills.

New Zealand’s batting department will be made up of Kane Williamson, Ross Taylor, captain Brendon McCullum, Martin Guptill, Tom Latham, Corey Anderson and Luke Ronchi, who will also don the keeping gloves.

“There were some hard decisions to make, but we’re pleased with the overall 15 we’ve chosen,” New Zealand head coach Mike Hesson said. “A lot of bowlers have performed brilliantly for us over the past couple of seasons, which certainly made it difficult, but we think we have the right mix.

“Our batting unit has good depth and 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.”

New Zealand’s World Cup Squad: Brendon McCullum (capt), Trent Boult, Grant Elliott, Tom Latham, Martin Guptill, Mitchell McClenaghan, Nathan McCullum, Kyle Mills, Adam Milne, Daniel Vettori, Kane Williamson, Corey Anderson, Tim Southee, Luke Ronchi (wk), Ross Taylor