“We believe Mark is one of our best players of spin and has a proven track-record in the sub-continent,” said Wells. “Mark has displayed an ability to play spin proactively in the international arena, and combined with his excellent first-class record, we see him as someone who can succeed in the type of conditions we expect to encounter in India.”

On the other hand, Michael Bracewell will travel to India for the first Test before returning home for the birth of his second child as well. He will also be replaced by Ish Sodhi for the remainder of the series as well.

New Zealand squad: Tom Latham (c), Tom Blundell (wk), Michael Bracewell (1st Test only), Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ben Sears, Ish Sodhi (2nd and 3rd Test only), Tim Southee, Kane Williamson, Will Young