Central Stags batsman Tom Bruce could debut for New Zealand in the upcoming T20 series with Bangladesh.
Tom Bruce Photo: Photosport
Selectors have named a 14 man squad for the three match series which includes a recall to international colours for the Stags pace bowler Ben Wheeler
Corey Anderson has been named as a batsman only, while Tim Southee will miss all three matches to prepare for the Test series.
Trent Boult will miss the first T20 as part of a planned break while Mitchell McClenaghan, Adam Milne and Doug Bracewell were not considered due to injury.
Black Caps selector Gavin Larsen said the 25-year-old Bruce thoroughly deserved his call-up.
"Tom has been one of the leading players in the Super Smash the past two years and is one of the cleanest strikers of a cricket ball in the country," said Larsen.
"He's averaged 76 at a strike-rate of 174 this season, so Tom's proven himself to be a very dangerous player. Power is a critical element to Twenty20 cricket, so to have him alongside the likes of Martin, Corey and the two Colins is an exciting prospect."
Wheeler is also in line to make his T20 International debut, having previously played six ODIs, the last in August 2015.
Bowler Ben Wheeler appeals as Johann Myburgh is lbw during the four day game between Somerset and a New Zealand XI. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
"It's been great to see Ben back playing cricket and getting near his best. He's put in a lot of hard work to get to this point again, so we're looking forward to having him back in the mix.
"Ben's ability to swing the ball at a decent clip can trouble any batsmen, as he's shown in domestic cricket this season."
Larsen indicated Ross Taylor's non selection was a performance based decision, but gave a positive update on his fitness.
"Ross' recovery from eye surgery is going well and he'll be available to play in the Super Smash competition within the next few days. Ross is a hugely important player for us and we're looking forward to having him back in action for us in the Tests," said Larsen.
"We've got some really exciting players coming through and it's important to give them opportunities and introduce them to the international stage. There are a number of players who just missed out - the likes of Mark Chapman, Neil Wagner, George Worker and Seth Rance were all seriously considered."
McLean Park in Napier will host the opening Twenty20 on January 3, with the series then shifting to Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui for matches on January 6 and 8.
BLACKCAPS squad for Twenty20 Series:
Kane Williamson (c)
Corey Anderson
Trent Boult
Tom Bruce
Colin de Grandhomme
Martin Guptill
Lockie Ferguson
Matt Henry
Colin Munro
Jimmy Neesham
Luke Ronchi
Mitchell Santner
Ish Sodhi
Ben Wheeler
