Tom Blundell has played two Tests and three T20Is © Getty

Uncapped wicketkeeper-batsman Tom Blundell has been selected in New Zealand's 15-member squad for the upcoming world cup. Blundell managed to make a surprise entry to the squad after Tim Seifert, who had impressed in his limited chance as the second choice 'keeper, injured the little finger on his right hand on the last day of the domestic season while playing for Northern Districts.

While most of the players made through without much debate, Colin de Grandhomme was picked up ahead of Doug Bracewell as the all-rounder, while Ish Sodhi pipped Todd Astle as the second spinner in the side. While Grandhomme will accompany James Neesham as the all-rounder in the side, Sodhi will have the company of slow left-armer Mitchell Santner.

The pace attack consists of Tim Southee, Trent Boult, Lockie Ferguson and Matt Henry, with the toss-up likely to be between Southee and Henry for the spot of the third pacer in the XI.

The selectors have also retained their faith in an out-of-form Colin Munro, who makes it to the side despite some ordinary ODI numbers. He is expected to play a back-up role with the remaining batsmen selecting themselves.

"As with any squad named for a major tournament, there's had to be some tough calls and there will be some disappointed players," Gary Stead, the head coach, said. "The key for us was finding the right balance for the squad and making sure we had our bases covered for what is going to be a very competitive World Cup. As a one-day unit we've been pretty consistent over the past few years and possess a very experienced group of core players, proven at the top level.

"The World Cup is the pinnacle of cricket and to be the first nation to name a squad for the tournament is really exciting. I'd like to congratulate all the players selected. To represent your country at a World Cup is a huge honour and I know the entire squad and support staff are looking forward to the challenges ahead."

The squad will prepare in three two-day training camps in Christchurch in April before heading to Australia for a three-match unofficial 50-over series. However, several top players, who are involved in IPL, are unlikely to join the squad.

"We will have three training camps through April which will involve many players who are not in this squad as it's important they're ready on stand-by should we lose anybody in the lead up to or at the tournament," Stead said.

Who is Tom Blundell?

Blundell, the wicketkeeper-batsman from Wellington, made his List A debut back in 2013 against Otago and has notched up 763 runs at an average of 23.81 in the 50-over format. He has also effected 41 dismissals in his List A career so far. The 29-year-old has represented New Zealand in two Tests and three T20Is.

Squad: Kane Williamson (c), Tom Blundell, Trent Boult, Colin de Grandhomme, Lockie Ferguson, Martin Guptill, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Colin Munro, Jimmy Neesham, Henry Nicholls, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor