NZ name strong 'A' squad for India tour in September

It will be the first time that a New Zealand 'A' side will be playing overseas since the 2018 tour to the United Arab Emirates

New Zealand on Friday announced a strong 'A' squad, including seven cricketers with international experience, for their upcoming tour of India featuring both red and white ball series in September.

It will be the first time that a New Zealand 'A' side will be playing overseas since the 2018 tour to the United Arab Emirates, where it played against Pakistan 'A'.

The India tour will feature three four-day matches and three one-day matches in Bangalore and Chennai. New Zealand A last toured India in 2017.

Besides players with international experience, the 15-member squad also features five players with a chance to represent New Zealand 'A' for the first time -- Chad Bowes, Matt Fisher, Ben Lister, Robbie O'Donnell and Joe Walker.

Tom Bruce (Central Districts) and O'Donnell (Auckland) have been named co-captains for the tour. New Zealand 'A' will depart for India on August 26.

"It's great to have A fixtures back on the touring calendar and even more exciting to have the team playing in foreign conditions," New Zealand selector Gavin Larsen said in a statement.

"With a mix of red ball and white ball matches it's a great chance to see the players in a variety of situations against what we know will be a very strong home side.