NZ fast bowler Milne wins battle for World Cup spot

WELLINGTON: Fast bowler Adam Milne won the battle for the final pace bowling spot in New Zealand’s cricket World Cup squad named on Thursday.
Milne’s selection in the final 15-man squad had been signalled during New Zealand’s second test against Sri Lanka in Wellington when he joined the team for sessions with bowling coach Shane Bond. With head coach Mike Hesson already determining the squad would need five pace bowlers, the 22-year-old Milne pipped Canterbury’s Matt Henry in what could be the final decision in the squad’s composition.
Selectors sprung something of a surprise, however, by picking 35-year-old all-rounder Grant Elliott, who has not played for the one-day side for over a year. Veteran Kyle Mills also made the cut after recovering sufficiently from a groin strain he sustained during the Pakistan series. Squad: Brendon McCullum (captain), Martin Guptill, Kane Williamson, Ross Taylor, Tom Latham, Jimmy Neesham, Corey Anderson, Luke Ronchi, Nathan McCullum, Daniel Vettori, Kyle Mills, Tim Southee, Trent Boult, Mitchell McClenaghan, Adam Milne.