Cricket: NZ win toss, to bat v Windies

New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming chose to bat first after winning the toss for today's fifth and final one-day cricket international against the West Indies at Eden Park.

New Zealand lead the series 4-0 and have rested spinner Daniel Vettori for the series finale.

Allrounder James Franklin starts following his recall as a replacement for the injured Michael Mason while Kyle Mills retains his place after a impressive return in his comeback international at Napier on Wednesday where New Zealand won by 91 runs.

Spinner Jeetan Patel continues his role as super-sub while batsman Ross Taylor will play his second international batting at No 4.

The West Indies batting line-up has been weakened by the withdrawal of vice-captain Ramnaresh Sarwan due to a thigh strain, while allrounder Dwayne Bravo was named for his second appearance of the series.

Pace bowler Jerome Taylor was included at the expense of Deighton Butler.

- NZPA