Ross Taylor and Brendon McCullum are returning early to focus on the West Indies matches. Photo / Christine Cornege
New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum and senior batsman Ross Taylor are to skip the limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka starting on November 10.
The pair are heading home to prepare for the home international summer, which starts with the West Indies tour, including three tests, five ODIs and two T20s,
and continues with India in the New Year.
Wellington wicketkeeper-batsman Luke Ronchi and experienced seamer Ian Butler are taking their place.
"Ross and Brendon need red ball preparation to be at their best for the summer," New Zealand Cricket's national selection boss Bruce Edgar said.
''Both players are vital to our success and fine tuning their red ball skills before the West Indies series starting in early December is paramount."
