New Zealand persist with struggling Guptill for India tour

29-year-old was expected to miss out after failing recently in two Test series against South Africa

WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND: New Zealand selectors kept faith with out-of form opener Martin Guptill, as they picked him in the 15-man squad for the three-Test series against India on Tuesday..

Guptill failed with the bat in two Tests against South Africa last month, reinforcing the impression he struggles in the five-day game, despite his limited overs talents.

He averages 43.25 in one-dayers but just 29.59 in Tests and can expect a torrid time against world number two India.

In retaining the 29-year-old, New Zealand have rejected the chance to blood Jeet Raval, who is familiar with Indian conditions after playing his youth cricket there.

The other notable feature of the squad was a recall for all-rounder Jimmy Neesham after an injury-enforced absence from international cricket. "Jimmy has put in a lot of work to make sure he is physically ready for a return to Test cricket," selector Gavin Larsen said. "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 said India's home record was formidable, but the Black Caps were looking for a historic series win. "We're yet to win a Test series over there and that's motivating for everyone," he said. "We've got three Tests to try create a special piece of history."

New Zealand will play Tests in Kanpur, Kolkata and Indore, followed by a five-match one-day series against India.

Squad:

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