Sinclair averages 32.55 overall although only 14.13 against Australia

New Zealand have called Mathew Sinclair into their squad in place of Neil Broom for the first Test against Australia, which starts on Friday.

The move comes after the Black Caps' batting problems were exposed during the one-day series against Australia.

"We felt we needed a cover top-order batter, rather than cover for our middle order," said New Zealand selector Mark Greatbatch.

He added that Broom had been a "little unlucky" to be dropped.

Sinclair, 34, averages 32.55 from 32 Tests, although his average in eight matches against Australia is only 14.13.

He last played a Test two years ago, having been dropped after a poor home series against England in March 2008.

Greatbatch also confirmed that all-rounder and captain Daniel Vettori will bat at number six in the order.

"He has been very successful there over the last half-dozen Tests," he said.

"It also gives a very good balance to our side. It enables us to play the five bowlers we are looking for, whether that is four seamers and one spinner, or three seamers and two spinners - we have the ability to be flexible."

New Zealand squad: Daniel Vettori (capt), Brent Arnel, Martin Guptill, Peter Ingram, Brendon McCullum (wk), Tim McIntosh, Chris Martin, Jeetan Patel, Mathew Sinclair, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Daryl Tuffey, BJ Watling.

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