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Bell in Kiwi team for Tests

Opening batsman Matthew Bell has been called upon to join New Zealand's Test side for the four-Test series against England after the World Cup.

Bell, who's failed to make the World Cup party because of a viral infection he contacted in March, is one of four players named to the squad.

Convenor of selectors Ross Dykes said it was likely that Bell would partner Matthew Horne to open the innings, with Nathan Astle dropping down the order.

"The top-order batsmen have struggled during the World Cup," Dykes said in a statement. "We initially selected Matthew last season as an opening batsman. Unfortunately illness prevented him from taking his opportunity. However, the selectors still believe he has the talent and potential to play international cricket in the opening role."

With the inclusion of four new faces, three from the present World Cup side will have to go. Gavin Larsen has been dropped from the Tests, in keeping with the New Zealand team management's view of him as a one-day specialist. Also out are Matthew Hart and Carl Bulfin - both of whom have had little cricket during the World Cup and were considered surprise selections in the squad. Seam bowler Shayne O'Connor has been called back into the 16-man Test squad, while two new caps were named in right-arm leg-spin bowler Brooke Walker and wicketkeeper Marty Croy.

"The selectors simply believe that O'Connor and Walker offer a more varied and potent attacking option for the Test format at this time," Dykes said of the decision to drop Hart and Bulfin.

The squad: Stephen Fleming (captain), Geoff Allott, Nathan Astle, Matthew Bell, Chris Cairns, Martyn Croy, Simon Doull, Chris Harris, Matthew Horne, Craig McMillan, Dion Nash, Shayne O'Connor, Adam Parore, Roger Twose, Daniel Vettori, Brooke Walker.

Agencies