Batsman Neil Broom and all-rounder Jimmy Neesham have been dropped from next month's Blackcaps ODI tour of India.
Coach Mike Hesson's named an initial squad of nine players with another six to come from the New Zealand 'A' side that's currently touring India.
The two sides will square off in three ODIs and three Twenty20s
Hesson wants Broom to show he has the skills to effectively bat at five in the order while Neesham needs to dominate domestic cricket with bat and ball.
"It will be disappointing for James and Neil, but we've talked through the areas that we'd like to see them work on and if we see development they'll certainly both come into the reckoning come the home summer," said Hesson.
"Neil was really effective for us batting at three or four last season, but we have quality, established batsmen in those positions and we'd like to see Neil develop his game further to show he has the skills to bat at five.
"Jimmy needs go back and really dominate domestic cricket with both bat and ball. We know Jimmy is a talented player, but we've spoken with him around improving the consistency in all areas of his game."
"The nine we've picked have made up the core of our ODI team for a while and all of them have experience playing in India," said Hesson.
"With a number of our top guys already playing in India, it's helpful to be able to select the squad in two parts. With six spots left, there's an obvious incentive for the players in New Zealand A to perform and put their best foot forward."
The team depart for India on 12 October.
Newshub.
