WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) Uncapped batsman Henry Nicholls has been included in the New Zealand cricket squad for the first three matches of a five-match one-day international series against Sri Lanka, beginning on Dec. 26.
Nicholls, from Canterbury province, was the leading scorer in New Zealand's domestic one-day competition last year, averaging 75.66.
Coach Mike Hesson said the 24-year-old ''has been knocking on the door for a while and shown impressive consistency over the last year for both Canterbury and New Zealand A. He's still young and a real talent.''
Fast bowler Trent Boult will be rested for the first three ODIs while his new ball partner Tim Southee will miss the first two and return for the third, replacing Matt Henry.
Allrounders Grant Elliott and Nathan McCullum were not considered because of injuries.
