New Zealand recall Jimmy Neesham, Todd Astle for last two ODIs against 'unbeatable' India

New Zealand have decided to make some changes in their squad for the remaining two ODIs against India. All-rounder Jimmy Neesham and leg-spinner Todd Astle have been brought in, while openers Martin Guptill and Colin Monro have been preserved

There were signs of improvement for the Blackcaps, with Ross Taylor back on form with 93, but there was no stopping India at the Bay Oval as India took a 3-0 lead in the five-match ODI series.

After losing a third successive game on Monday, the Kiwis have decided to make some changes in their squad for the remaining two ODIs against India. All-rounder Jimmy Neesham and leg-spinner Todd Astle have been brought in, while openers Martin Guptill and Colin Monro, who have both struggled with the bat have been preserved.

Guptill and Monro put on 10 for the first wicket following partnerships of 23 and five in the two matches before that.

Neesham returns to the side to replace all-rounder Doug Bracewell, while Astle comes in for Ish Sodhi as the leg-spinner.

Astle, who has recovered from a knee injury which forced him out of New Zealand’s series against Pakistan in November, is also a capable lower order batsman in a side struggling for runs.

“It’s great to welcome back the all-round skills of Jimmy and Todd and we’re looking forward to seeing what they can bring to the series,” selector Gavin Larsen said, as New Zealand works towards finalising its World Cup squad.

“We’re still looking to keep our options open with selections at this stage and ensure we continue to learn as much as we can about our players.”

New Zealand squad: Kane Williamson (pact), Todd Astle, Trent Boult, Colin De Grandhomme, Lockie Ferguson, Martin Guptill, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Colin Munro, Jimmy Neesham, Henry Nicholls, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor.