Cricket: Southee, Flynn called into Black Caps

Strong domestic form has seen Tim Southee called up to the Black Caps squad for the third test. Photo / Getty Images

New Zealand have included bowler Tim Southee in a 13-strong squad named today for the third and final cricket test against India beginning at Wellington's Basin Reserve on Friday.

Top order batsman Daniel Flynn, recovering well from a bruised left hand after being struck by a ball in the first test at Hamilton, has also been included in the squad.

Selection panel head Glenn Turner said today Flynn, who sat out the second test at Napier which ended in a draw yesterday, was expected to be fit to play but this would be confirmed before the test.

"In the interim, Jamie How will remain with the squad as cover."

Southee, who last faced India in the third one-dayer at Christchurch when he recorded figures of 0-105 off 10 overs, had been brought back into the squad after good performances in recent State Championship games, including a five-wicket bag against Canterbury, Turner said.

"Tim's inclusion gives us additional options with the new ball, and strengthens the attack against this strong Indian batting lineup."

Fellow Northern Districts bowler Brent Arnel had not been able to prove his fitness and was not considered for selection.

All rounder Jacob Oram was also not considered as he continues to recover from injury.

India lead the test series 1-0 after their 10-wicket win in the first test.

Black Caps squad
Daniel Vettori (captain), Daniel Flynn, James Franklin, Martin Guptill, Brendon McCullum, Tim McIntosh, Chris Martin, Kyle Mills, Iain O'Brien, Jeetan Patel, Jesse Ryder, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor

- NZPA