No changes to NZ squad for India Tests

(MENAFN-Arab News) WELLINGTON: New Zealand retained the squad that completed a 2-0 series win over West Indies for the two-Test cricket series against India beginning on Feb. 6

The 12 players named by the New Zealand selectors on Sunday took part in the second and third tests against West Indies, winning both after the opening match of the series was drawn

Selection manager Bruce Edgar said while there were a number of players pressing for places in the squad, he and head coach Mike Hesson were happy with the form of the squad

“We’ve made a lot of progress in the test format recently and the two matches against India will be another chance to continue that development,” Edgar said

Hesson added: “We were thrilled the way we played to beat West Indies 2-0, but realize we’ll have to step it up another gear when playing India

“It’s an exciting challenge and we look forward to giving it our all.” Jesse Ryder will travel with the squad as a possible replacement for Ross Taylor, whose wife is expecting their second child

New Zealand: Brendon McCullum (captain), Corey Anderson, Trent Boult, Doug Bracewell, Peter Fulton, Hamish Rutherford, Jesse Ryder, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling, Kane Williamson.