Boult forces way into NZ World Cup squad

Fast bowler Trent Boult has forced his way into New Zealand’s 15-man squad for next month’s Cricket World Cup after outstanding Test performances.

Boult has played 30 Tests but only 10 one-day internationals since his New Zealand debut in 2011. He has 110 wickets in Tests at an average of 27.4 and only 10 in ODIs at 39.6.

But he has become the spearhead of the New Zealand attack, taking 38 wickets in Tests in the past 12 months, returning to the one-day side in October for matches against South Africa.

Black Caps coach Mike Hesson’s squad for the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand includes veteran allrounder Grant Elliott and quick Adam Milne, who clocked up deliveries above 150km/h against Pakistan.

Young allrounder Jimmy Neesham and paceman Matt Henry have missed out, with Hesson saying the selectors’ focus had been on finding the right balance.

“There were some hard decisions to make, but we’re pleased with the overall 15 we’ve chosen,” he said.

“A lot of bowlers have performed brilliantly for us over the past couple of seasons, which certainly made it difficult, but we think we have the right mix.”

Elliott, who has played 51 ODIs since 2008, has averaged just under 30 with the bat and has an economy rate of less than five runs per over with the ball.

Hesson said the allrounder’s experience would be important for the Black Caps, who open their campaign against Sri Lanka on February 14 in Christchurch.

“Our batting unit has good depth and Grant’s inclusion assures us strong cover in the middle order,” Hesson said.

“He brings a lot of experience, and his record in New Zealand and Australian conditions is excellent.”

Henry is unlucky to miss out, despite a match-winning 5-30 in a series-deciding ODI against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates.

He was overlooked for the experienced Kyle Mills, who left that tour early with a groin injury.

The 35-year-old has recovered in time to win the nod, his 167 matches counting in his favour.

Neesham topped the bowling averages in the just-completed Test series victory with 6-99 and his batting average of 39.7 was fourth best after Kane Williamson, BJ Watling and Brendon McCullum.

But Neesham has struggled to make a major impact in ODIs since his debut two years ago, averaging less than 15 with the bat in his 16 matches.

NZ: Brendon McCullum (capt), Corey Anderson, Trent Boult, Grant Elliott, Martin Guptill, Tom Latham, Mitchell McClenaghan, Nathan McCullum, Kyle Mills, Adam Milne, Luke Ronchi, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Daniel Vettori, Kane Williamson.

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