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England in New Zealand 2007-08
Southee added to New Zealand squad
Cricinfo staff
March 17, 2008
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Tim Southee removes Kevin Pietersen during the Twenty20 series
© Getty Images
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Tim Southee, the 19-year-old quick bowler, has been added to New Zealand's squad for the deciding Test against England, in Napier, on Saturday. He is the only addition to the party, which otherwise remains the same despite New Zealand's 126-run defeat in Wellington.
Southee made his international debut in the Twenty20 matches against England last month and impressed with his pace and control. He was then part of the New Zealand Under-19 World Cup squad where he was named Man of the Tournament after collecting 17 wickets at 6.64.
His chance may come as a replacement for Kyle Mills, who is suffering from pain behind his left knee. Mills was due to be assessed on Monday afternoon, but the problem isn't related to the one which kept him out of action last year and forced him to miss the World Cup.
However, a New Zealand statement said that Southee will be considered for selection even if Mills is declared fit. He could replace Mark Gillespie as the third seamer because, even though Gillespie claimed six wickets in Wellington, he proved expensive while his fielding and batting added little to the cause. He dropped Paul Collingwood, on 0, during the third day's play when New Zealand still had a chance of restricting England's lead.
Despite two unconvincing performances from the top order the selectors have retained the same batting line-up. Matthew Bell appeared well out of his depth but, after being handed a NZC contract, will be given another chance to open alongside Jamie How while Mathew Sinclair's 39 in the second innings probably saved his place.
Sinclair, though, could still come under pressure from allrounder Grant Elliott if New Zealand look to juggle their bowling unit. Jeetan Patel will come into consideration again on a surface which is expected to be a full of runs so Elliott would offer another seam option for Daniel Vettori.
Squad Jamie How, Matthew Bell, Stephen Fleming, Mathew Sinclair, Ross Taylor, Jacob Oram, Brendon McCullum (wk), Daniel Vettori (capt), Kyle Mills, Mark Gillespie, Chris Martin, Jeetan Patel, Grant Elliott, Tim Southee
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