Michael Mason, a 29-year-old fast bowler for Central Districts, was the surprise inclusion in New Zealand's squad for the first Test against India that starts on December 12. Mason's inclusion was based on his impressive three-wicket haul in the first innings of Central Districts' tour game against India.

"Mason is a bowler with good pace," said Richard Hadlee, the chairman of selectors. "He has been impressive in the current game, taking 3 for 46 in the first innings against India. He swings the ball away from right-handed batsmen."

Mason jolted India by picking up the wickets of Virender Sehwag, Rahul Dravid and Sourav Ganguly, thus edging out Lance Hamilton, his nearest competitor for a place in the national side.

Jacob Oram, the Central Districts allrounder who has played 25 one-day internationals but no Test matches, was also picked in the squad after passing a fitness test.

"Oram had been considered for Test teams in the past, but was the 12th man," Hadlee said in a statement. "His selection follows huge progress in his bowling. He has brisk pace and his height makes for increased bounce which can prove awkward for batsmen in some conditions. He has been impressive for Central Districts this season with both the bat and ball."

Hadlee said the selectors had taken a conservative approach to naming the team bearing in mind the lack of cricket. He said: "We're backing experience and putting our faith in players who have performed at the top level. I am, however, concerned about lack of wickets and runs from leading players in recent matches."

Ian Butler, the tearaway fast bowler, was unavailable due to injury, while allrounders Andre Adams and Chris Cairns, as well as Shayne O'Connor, the left-arm fast bowler, were undergoing rehabilitation programmes following injuries.

Daniel Vettori was the lone spinner in the squad, led by Stephen Fleming.

The squad 1 Stephen Fleming (capt), 2 Nathan Astle, 3 Mark Richardson, 4 Craig McMillan, 5 Jacob Oram, 6 Scott Styris, 7 Robbie Hart, 8 Daryl Tuffey, 9 Lou Vincent, 10 Shane Bond, 11 Daniel Vettori, 12 Michael Mason.

© Wisden CricInfo Ltd