Astle has paid the price for some disappointing form

Peter Fulton, 26, who has one previous one-day cap, and uncapped opener Jamie How, 24, were named in a 13-man squad.

All-rounder Andre Adams and fast bowler Shane Bond return after injuries, while captain Stephen Fleming is in the squad despite concerns over a finger injury.

The four-match series, which was put back after last year's Asian tsunami, begins on 31 December in Queenstown.

Canterbury's Fulton, who made nine against Bangladesh in Chittagong in November 2004, and Central Districts batsman How have been in good form in domestic cricket.

We were conscious of the need to retain continuity within the squad and not make wholesale changes John Bracewell

Astle has scored only 102 runs in his last seven one-day innings, while McMillan managed 20 in the three one-dayers against Australia earlier this month.

"We felt they should return to domestic cricket to work on their batting before being reconsidered for selection," coach John Bracewell said.

The Kiwis have lost seven out of their last 10 one-dayers and Hamish Marshall has averaged 9.95 during that run.

But Bracewell added: "We acknowledge his recent lack of form but believe he will turn it around.

"We were also conscious of the need to retain continuity within the squad and not to make wholesale changes."