All rounder Chris Cairns has been recalled to the New Zealand one-day squad for the three-match series against Australia next month, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) said on Wednesday.
Carins returns after fitness concerns kept him out of side for their one-day series in South Africa, which the Black Caps lost 4-0, although one match was abandoned without a ball being bowled.
Coach John Bracewell added that captain Stephen Fleming, however, could be ruled out of the first match for an undisclosed medical condition.
"Chris Cairns has been selected for the series following his return to fitness and form," Bracewell said.
"We sent Chris away to work on his cricket fitness and he has shown a great deal of discipline in his training and matches and we believe he is ready for a return to international cricket.
"He understands that it is a big step up to play Australia after taking part in pre-season domestic matches, but I am happy that if he continues the work ethic he has shown he will be up to the task.
"Fourteen players have been named in the squad as Stephen Fleming may not be available for the first match, following a personal medical matter, but hopes to be available for the remainder of the series.
Left arm spinner and vice captain Daniel Vettori would lead the side in Fleming's absence, Bracewell said.
If Fleming is considered fit enough to play then one of the players in the squad would be released to compete in domestic cricket.
Bracewell added that all rounder Jacob Oram had undergone fitness tests on his back and would be available for the matches.
"He has played during the past week," Bracewell said.
"He has bowled during these matches and we are happy that he seems free of back pain at present, and that he seems to be regaining form and confidence."
The three one-day matches are in Auckland on December 3, Wellington on December 7 and Christchurch on December 10.
New Zealand then play Sri Lanka in five one-day matches in January.
Squad: Stephen Fleming (captain), Daniel Vettori (vice captain), Nathan Astle, Shane Bond, Chris Cairns, James Franklin, Hamish Marshall, James Marshall, Brendon McCullum, Craig McMillan, Kyle Mills, Jacob Oram, Scott Styris, Lou Vincent.
