New Zealand seamer Tim Southee has been cleared to join the team at the 50-over World Cup in India as he recovers from thumb surgery, the country's cricket board said Wednesday.
The 34-year old bowler hopes to be fit for New Zealand's opening game of the tournament against reigning champions England on October 5 in Ahmedabad.
Southee, New Zealand's Test captain, underwent surgery last week after he fractured and dislocated his right thumb in a One Day International against England on September 15.
Pace bowler Kyle Jamieson will train with the squad in India as a back-up, after New Zealand Tuesday wrapped up a one-day series win in Bangladesh.
Jamieson will not officially be part of the World Cup squad.
He will not play in warm-up matches against Pakistan Friday and South Africa Monday.
New Zealand beat Bangladesh 2-0 in the three-match series following a seven-wicket win in the final ODI in Dhaka.
They won the second match by 86 runs Saturday after the series opener was washed out by rain.
