Vettori would welcome Bond back

New Zealand captain Daniel Vettori has said he would welcome fast bowler Shane Bond back into the team as soon his availability was confirmed.

Bond, who turned 34 last week, signed for the unofficial Indian Cricket League (ICL) last year and was banned from international cricket.

The ICL has now said its contracted players are free to opt out of their agreements and last week Pakistan called up all-rounder Abdul Razzaq into their Twenty20 World Cup side to replace an injured player.

Bond's return would significantly strengthen the Kiwis as he remains their fastest bowler and has claimed 79 wickets in his 17 tests at an average of just 22.39.

"I'm not sure officially if he has handed in his contract as well but I understand that was the plan," Vettori told reporters at Trent Bridge. "So he'll become available for New Zealand probably after this tournament.

"If you look at his stats, if he's fit and ready to come back into the side, his record says what a great player he is, so we'd love to have him back."

-Reuters