The axes fall as Martin Guptill makes way for Jeet Raval

Following what was a disastrous tour of India, the New Zealand selection panel has brought back batsman Jeet Raval and dropped Martin Guptill for the upcoming home series against Pakistan. Martin Guptill has been in terrible form of late and following a string of low scores in recent times. In spite of the fact that Guptill impressed quite marginally in the ODI series, the axes have indeed swayed.

Former New Zealand bowler and current chief selector Gavin Larsen has stated that it is time for Raval to make it big on the international stage after being in and around the scheme for quite a while. Jeet Raval also has been in tremendous form in recent times and has top-scored in the domestic circuit and will be expected to make a name for himself in conditions he is familiar in.

“Jeet has been in the picture for a while now and he benefited from spending time in the environment during the tour of Africa,” New Zealand selector Gavin Larsen said in a statement on Thursday.

“His form in recent seasons has been excellent and the opportunity for Jeet to begin his international career in familiar conditions will be important.”

Also read – Rahul Dravid chosen as brand ambassador for Blind Cricket World Cup

The Kiwis have also made two additions to the side. Colin de Grandhomme and Todd Astle make their way into the side. De Grandhomme has featured in ODIs and T20 playing one and four respectively. Todd Astle however, has featured in one Test for New Zealand against Sri Lanka in Colombo in 2012.

“Since Colin returned from injury last season, he’s made a number of key contributions with bat and ball,” Larsen added.

New Zealand: Jeet Raval, Tom Latham, Kane Williamson (captain), Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls, Colin de Grandhomme, Jimmy Neesham, BJ Watling, Todd Astle, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, Trent Boult, Matt Henry.