New Zealand name three spinners in ICC World T20 squad

New Zealand have named spinners Nathan McCullum, Ish Sodhi and Mitchell Santner in their squad for the World T20 in India.

The trio have been included in a 15-man party which will be captained by Kane Williamson.

Coach Mike Hesson said: "With Indian conditions in mind, the plan has always been to take three front-line spinners and all three bring something different.

"It's great to have Nathan available again and his experience in the foreign conditions will be invaluable.

"Both he and Mitch Santner have the ability to bowl during the first six overs, which gives Kane a number of options to work with."

Tim Southee, Ross Taylor and Mitchell McClenaghan - who are all currently injured - are expected to be fit for the tournament which starts on March 8 and have been named in the squad.

Rookie Henry Nicholls is back-up wicketkeeper to Luke Ronchi, while quick bowler Matt Henry has been omitted.

Nicholls, who is also a left-handed batsman, is yet to play a T20 for New Zealand, but was rewarded following his match-winning 82 against Pakistan in a ODI.

Hesson added: "Henry has shown his talent and versatility with the bat this summer and has also been used as a wicketkeeper for New Zealand A."  

New Zealand have been drawn in Group 2 of the Super 10 stage where they will face Australia, Pakistan, hosts India and a yet-to-be-decided qualifier.

The Kiwis open their campaign against India in Nagpur on March 15.

Squad: Kane Williamson (c), Corey Anderson, Trent Boult, Grant Elliott, Martin Guptill, Adam Milne, Mitchell McClenaghan, Colin Munro, Nathan McCullum, Henry Nicholls, Luke Ronchi, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor.

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