McMillan Dumped for Bangladesh

New Zealand selectors have named the Test squad for Bangladesh, with the erratic Craig McMillan left out of the squad in favour of Hamish Marshall.

Marshall, considered in the crucial number 5 at 6 roles, looks likely to play his second Test match - his first since New Zealand toured South Africa in 2001.

Alongside the exclusion of McMillan, selectors have opted to leave out Daryl Tuffey in an attempt to solve his bruising problem. When Tuffey dives or slides in the field, he bruises heavily, and the effects to his confidence have been telling of late.

James Franklin and Ian Butler join Kyle Mills and Chris Martin as the specialist pacemen in the squad, despite the much publicized poor form of Martin on the England and New Zealand 'A' tour. Butler, who was overlooked for the Test tour to England, adds firepower to an all-to-often popgun attack.

Paul Wiseman has edged out Bruce Martin for the second spinner role behind Daniel Vettori.

Michael Papps has been selected as the second specialist opening batsman but looks likely to miss out on the first Test side at least, with Stephen Fleming likely to open the innings.

The full squad is:

Stephen Fleming ( c )
Mark Richardson
Michael Papps
Scott Styris
Nathan Astle
Hamish Marshall
Jacob Oram
Brendon McCullum
Daniel Vettori
James Franklin
Paul Wiseman
Kyle Mills
Ian Butler
Chris Martin.

Posted by Andre