Martin Guptill has been recalled into the Blackcaps ODI squad at the expense of George Worker for their upcoming ODI series against Pakistan.
The 31-year-old Guptill has been out injured with a hamstring injury, but good form with Auckland and the Blackcaps Twenty20 squad has seen him recalled into the 13-man side.
Blackcaps Selector Gavin Larsen said it was good to have Guptill back, while acknowledging Worker was unfortunate to miss out.
"Martin is a proven world-class player, so we're naturally thrilled to have him back in the mix," said Larsen.
"It's tough on George missing out, but he'll continue to push for selection and will get further opportunities down the road."
The Blackcaps have also opted to keep two spinners in the squad with Todd Astle and Mitchell Santner. Larsen said having both Astle and Santner gave the team options.
"Todd made the most of his opportunity against the West Indies and made a strong contribution with both bat and ball.
"Mitchell has been one of our most consistent white ball bowlers for a long time now, as can be seen by him being ranked in the top 10 ODI bowlers in the world.
"Conditions will dictate whether they play in the same 11, but it's certainly not out of the question."
The opening match of the series is on January 6 at the Basin Reserve in Wellington.
NEW ZEALAND ODI SQUAD: Kane Williamson (C), Todd Astle, Doug Bracewell, Trent Boult, Lockie Ferguson, Martin Guptil, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Colin Munro, Henry Nicholls, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor.
Newshub.
