New Zealand vs Bangladesh 2019: Martin Guptill Returns to the ODI Squad; Colin Munro Dropped for First Two Matches

New Zealand opener, Colin Munro is dropped for the first two ODIs against Bangladesh, which begins on Wednesday (February 12th). Meanwhile, he will return to the side for the final match, replacing the regular captain, Kane Williamson; who will take a pre-planned rest. In his absence, the wicketkeeper-batsman, Tom Latham will lead the team in the last match. Also, Munro’s opening partner, Martin Guptill also makes a comeback to the squad. He missed the final ODI against India and the T20I series to follow, as he aggravated a disc in his lower back.

Struggling Munro set to stay on the sidelines

Due to his indifferent form in the India ODIs, Munro got dropped from the fourth game in Hamilton. However, he returned in the 5th match to fill Guptill’s shoes only to see him failing with the bat. Even in two T20Is against India, he found some form in the Wellington match, scoring 39 off 20 balls. Otherwise, his numbers, of late, aren’t impressing which has pushed the selectors to bench him for Bangladesh ODIs.

Meanwhile, Martin Guptill has recovered enough to play Bangladesh ODIs, which is New Zealand’s last ODI assignment leading upto the World Cup. Though his participation is subject to passing the fitness test, Henry Nicholls will partner him at the top of the order.

“We’re delighted to have Martin back on the park for this series; he’s a world-class player and an integral part of our one-day side,” selector Gavin Larsen said. “He and Henry did a good job opening up in Hamilton against India and they’re a combination we want to see some more of in this series before Colin returns to the top for the third game with Kane resting.”

Larsen welcomes spin-twins for Bangladesh ODIs

Apart from him, spin-twin, Mitchell Santner and Todd Astle will be there on the teamsheet for Bangladesh ODIs. Though in the past both suffered knee injuries, they are now on track to hit top form.

“We’ve been really pleased with Mitchell’s return after serious knee surgery last year, and we’ll continue to monitor him through the rest of the season,” Larsen added. “Todd’s another who is returning from a knee injury, and after getting limited opportunities against India, we’re keen to see more of him in this series,” he concluded.

New Zealand squad for Bangladesh ODIs –

Kane Williamson (c) (Games 1 & 2), Todd Astle, Trent Boult, Colin de Grandhomme, Lockie Ferguson, Martin Guptill, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Colin Munro (Game 3), Jimmy Neesham, Henry Nicholls, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor