New Zealand announced their ODI for five-match ODI series against India which begins October 16 will be led by Kane Williamson. All-rounder Corey Anderson along with Anton Devcich and BJ Watling make a comeback while Colin Munro, George Worker, McCleanghan and Adam Milne who were injured were not picked. Selectors have dropped left handed middle order Batsman Henry Nicholls.

After the experience of 260 One day internationals taken out of the picture, Williamson and Co. have big shoes of Brendon McCullum to fill in. They come into this series as underdogs, but considering the fact that India”s run in ODIS has been little bit up and down off late, they might fancy their chances.

Coming to the composition of their side, its a well balanced team on paper. Calm and composed Tom Latham teaming up with fiery and aggressive Martin Guptill at the top make a good opening pair. Then the rock solid Middle order in form of Williamson, Taylor combined with the prowess of Anderson and Ronchi make the Kiwi batting line up really dangerous. When it comes to bowling New Zealand have plenty of options in both spin and pace department. Southee, Boult and Matt Henry form a formidable pace attack. New Zealand might miss the services of Mitchell McCleanghan who has been astonishing during death overs for New Zealand and his IPL team Mumbai Indians. The spin duo of Sodhi and Santner will be assisted by Anton Devcich who can chip in with useful left arm offies, while Watling who is making a comeback will be back up for Ronchi.

The ODI series commences of 16th of October. When India step on to the field it will be their 900th ODI. Will Williamson and co. spoil the party?

The squad: Kane Williamson (C), Corey Anderson, Trent Boult, Anton Devcich, Doug Bracewell, Martin Guptill, Tom Latham, Jimmy Neesham, Luke Ronchi, Matt Henry, Tim Southee, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Ross Taylor, BJ Watling.

– by Atharva Apte