Kiwis recall 'fit-again' Neesham for Test series against India

New Zealand all-rounder Jimmy Neesham, who played his last international match against Australia in November last year, has been recalled in the 15-man Test squad for the upcoming tour to India.

Meanwhile, fast bowler Matt Henry and batsman Jeet Raval have been dropped from the squad that toured South Africa, with Neesham remaining the only addition against the Virat Kohli-led side.

Reflecting on the same, New Zealand selector Gavin Larsen said Neesham had put in a lot of hard work after an injury-enforced absence so as to make himself an attractive proposition for the India tour.

"Having two pace-bowling all-rounders in Jimmy and Doug Bracewell helps the balance of the squad, particularly if playing on pitches which demand a spin-heavy bowling attack," Larsen was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

"Mitch Santner and Ish Sodhi will have benefitted from getting a taste of Indian conditions earlier this year at the ICC World Twenty20 and both showed excellent form in that tournament. It's another big challenge for them early in their young careers, as well as for Mark Craig, who has made some changes in the past six months and has shown growth in his game," he added.

Admitting that India's record at home is formidable, the national selector said his side are looking forward to create a special piece of history by winning their first Test series in India.

The Kane Williams-led side will play three-match Test series against India, starting on September 22 at Kanpur's Green Park Stadium.

The New Zealand Test squad is as follows:

Kane Williamson (captain), Trent Boult, Doug Bracewell, Mark Craig, Martin Guptill, Tom Latham, Jimmy Neesham, Henry Nicholls, Luke Ronchi, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling.