Cairns missed the losing series in South Africa with fitness concerns

Cairns returns after fitness concerns kept him out of side for their losing one-day series in South Africa.

But captain Stephen Fleming could be ruled out of the first match for an undisclosed medical condition.

"Chris Cairns has been selected for the series following his return to fitness and form," said coach John Bracewell.

"We sent Chris away to work on his cricket fitness and he has shown a great deal of discipline in his training and matches and we believe he is ready for a return to international cricket.

"He understands that it is a big step up to play Australia after taking part in pre-season domestic matches, but I am happy that if he continues the work ethic he has shown he will be up to the task.

"Fourteen players have been named in the squad as Stephen Fleming may not be available for the first match, following a personal medical matter, but hopes to be available for the remainder of the series."

Left-arm spinner and vice-captain Daniel Vettori would lead the side in Fleming's absence, Bracewell said.

All-rounder Jacob Oram has also been passed fit after back problems.

"He has played during the past week," Bracewell said.

"He has bowled during these matches and we are happy that he seems free of back pain at present, and that he seems to be regaining form and confidence."

The three one-day matches are in Auckland on 3 December, Wellington on 7 December and Christchurch on 10 December.

New Zealand then play Sri Lanka in five one-day matches in January.

Squad: Stephen Fleming (captain), Daniel Vettori (vice captain), Nathan Astle, Shane Bond, Chris Cairns, James Franklin, Hamish Marshall, James Marshall, Brendon McCullum, Craig McMillan, Kyle Mills, Jacob Oram, Scott Styris, Lou Vincent.