Elliot, Vettori included in New Zealand's World Cup squad

Wellington, Jan 8 (IANS) Veteran all-rounder Grant Elliot and ace left-arm spinner Daniel Vettori has been named in New Zealand's squad for next month's Cricket World Cup, announced Thursday.

Elliot returns to the team after a gap of over a year from One Day Internationals (ODI). Vettori will feature for the fourth time at the mega event.

Black Caps coach Mike Hesson has said that the selectors have succeeded in picking the squad focussing on finding the right balance.

"There were some hard decisions to make, but we're pleased with the overall 15 we've chosen, A lot of bowlers have performed brilliantly for us over the past couple of seasons, which certainly made it difficult, but we think we have the right mix," Hesson said.

Hesson also believes that Elliot’s experience would be important for his side, who open their campaign against Sri Lanka at Hagley Oval in Christchurch Feb 14.

"Our batting unit has good depth and Grant's inclusion assures us strong cover in the middle order. He brings a lot of experience and his record in New Zealand and Australia conditions is excellent," he added.

Elliot has played 51 ODIs so far, scoring 1013 runs and pocketing 20 wickets at an economy rate of 4.97.

New Zealand’s 15 member squad: Brendon McCullum (captain), Corey Anderson, Trent Boult, Grant Elliott, Martin Guptill, Tom Latham, Mitchell McClenaghan, Nathan McCullum, Kyle Mills, Adam Milne, Luke Ronchi, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Daniel Vettori, Kane Williamson.