Kiwis retain squad for second Test

The New Zealand selectors on Monday retained almost the same side for the second Test against India which suffered a humiliating 10-wicket mauling in the first Test in Hamilton.

Brent Arnel is the only one to be omitted from the squad as the fast bowler, who was released to play in the domestic competition, has been laid low by a side strain.

The second Test will begin in Napier on March 26.

Iain O'Brien and Daniel Flynn, who picked up minor injuries in the Hamilton Test, would be monitored over the next two or three days.

"But there were currently no plans to bring in additional players as cover," said selection committee chairman Glenn Turner.

Turner said Jacob Oram's progress is being followed closely but he is not yet close to match fitness and would play a few domestic games.

"He is only had a couple of days in the domestic competition. After talking with him we agree he would benefit from more game time to get up to the fitness level needed for the Test side," Turner said.

Squad: Daniel Vettori (captain), Daniel Flynn, James Franklin, Martin Guptill, Tim McIntosh, Brendon McCullum, Chris Martin, Kyle Mills, Iain O'Brien, Jeetan Patel, Jesse Ryder, Ross Taylor.