Paceman earns surprise recall, Southee axed

The New Zealand cricket selection panel has swung the axe on Tim Southee, after a wicketless display in the drawn first test against South Africa in Dunedn. But former seamer Mark Gillespie returns along with leg-spinner Tarun Nethula, for the second test starting in Hamilton on Thursday. Southee, who has played 17 tests for the Black Caps, finished with none for 140 from 36 overs in Dunedin. Gillespie has played just three tests, the last of which against the West Indies in 2008. He took a five-wicket bag on test debut against South Africa in 2007. The 32-year-old has been in form for Wellington in the Plunket Shield taking 25 wickets at an average of 26.92, including three five-wicket bags. National Selection Manager Kim Littlejohn said Southee would need to find improved form to return to the test squad. "Tim Southee hasn't been included. He a talented young fast bowler and we are confident he will return to the Plunket Shield and continue to put pressure on those in the Test team. "Mark Gillespie returns to international cricket after showing good form recently and provides and strong and reliable bowling option. "We are pleased to be able to offer Tarun an opportunity. He is bowling well and offers a point of difference to the attack. "BJ Watling and Dean Brownlie were not considered for selection as they have not recovered sufficiently from injury." The squad will assemble in Hamilton tomorrow morning.