Kiwis recall Ish Sodhi for Hamilton ODI

Hamilton [New Zealand], Feb. 3 (ANI): New Zealand leg-spinner Ish Sodhi has been recalled into the side for the Chappell-Hadlee series decider against Australia to be played in Hamilton on Sunday. Sodhi was a key performer for the Black Caps when they emerged victorious in the deciding match of the 2016 series at the Seddon Park. Figures of 2 for 31, including the wickets of the captain Steven Smith and Glenn Maxwell, earned him the Man of the Match award. "History shows that the Seddon Park pitch can be spin friendly and for that reason Ish has been brought into the squad," ESPNcricinfo quoted New Zealand national selector Gavin Larsen said. "We wanted the option of two specialist spinners for this match and it's a venue that Ish has had some success in at in the past. Mike [Hesson] and Kane [Williamson] will now get the opportunity to assess the pitch over the next couple of days and make a decision from there as to who will be in the playing eleven," he added. Meanwhile, Dean Brownlie has been retained in the squad as swashbuckling opener Martin Guptill remains doubtful for the match due to a hamstring strain. "Martin has made progress in the last couple of days, but it's not yet clear whether he'll be available for selection," Larsen said. "At this stage it's probably 50-50." The second ODI of the series was on Thursday abandoned without a ball being bowled after persistence rain left the outfield too wet to play at McLean Park in Napier. (ANI)