New Zealand adds pacer Lockie Ferguson to squad for Australian ODI series

Auckland pacer Lockie Ferguson has been added to the New Zealand side for the upcoming series against Australia. The ODI series played under the banner of the Chappell-Hadlee series will witness both Australia and New Zealand lock horns following what was a well-fought Test series in February prior to the start of the World T20.

Gavin Larsen, a former New Zealand fast bowler from yesteryear and chief selector in his own right went on to reveal that Lockie Ferguson had been impressive on the domestic scene and was also someone who bowled at a pace befitting his selection in the side.

“Lockie has been impressive on the domestic scene and bowls at a pace which give our bowling attack a different option,” selector Gavin Larsen said in a statement.

Todd Astle and Colin de Grandhomme are also added to the ODI squad following their impressive performances in the first Test match at Christchurch. Colin de Grandhomme was particularly impressive when he picked six wickets in the first innings against Pakistan, something that saw him pick up the man of the match award.

“Todd and Colin de Grandhomme have both been in our thinking for ODIs and their ability with bat and ball gives the squad an important balance,” Larsen added.

Larsen also added that Colin Munro’s return was something that supplemented Ross Taylor’s absence. “Its good to see Colin Munro return and immediately have an impact for Auckland. He’s shown how dynamic a batsman he is, so its great to have him available again, especially in Ross’s absence.”

New Zealand: Kane Williamson (captain), Todd Astle, Trent Boult, Lockie Ferguson, Martin Guptill, Colin de Grandhomme, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Colin Munro, Jimmy Neesham, Henry Nicholls, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, BJ Watling.