The Black Caps have added a second specialist spinner in their T20 squad to play Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates.
Central Districts left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel has been added from the New Zealand A side which has been playing Pakistan in the UAE.
"It's no secret that spin is crucial in this part of the world and with the wickets on the slower side, we've taken the option of a second spinner to bring our squad up to 14-players," said coach Gary Stead.
Ajaz Patel in action for the Central Stags. Photo: Photosport
"We're fortunate that Ajaz has been playing over here for the past month and playing well; so he'll be ready to go should he get his chance in the series."
Patel claimed 4-57 across the three T20s between New Zealand A and Pakistan A, at an economy rate of just over six runs-per-over.
The call-up could pave the way for an earlier than expected Black Caps debut for the 30-year-old, who was named in the Test squad for the first time before the tour.
The Black Caps play the first of their three T20 games against Pakistan on Thursday Morning in Abu Dhabi.
Patel had already been named in the test squad for the tour and if he plays a test will will become New Zealand's fifth Indian-born test cricketer after Ted Badcock, Tom Puna, Ish Sodhi and Jeet Raval
Black Caps Twenty20 squad:
Kane Williamson (c), Corey Anderson, Mark Chapman, Lockie Ferguson, Colin de Grandhomme, Adam Milne, Colin Munro, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Seth Rance, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor.
-RNZ
