Cairns back for Wellington game after Oram injured

New Zealand will have the services of Chris Cairns a little earlier than anticipated with his call-up for the side for tomorrow's fifth One-Day International against India at Wellington's Westpac Stadium.

He will replace Jacob Oram who broke a finger at training today.

TelstraClear Black Caps manager Jeff Crowe said: "Jake was attempting to take a low catch and was struck on the end of his little finger.

"He was immediately taken to hospital where an x-ray revealed the fracture.

"Jake is to be examined by an orthopaedic surgeon this evening who will assist the New Zealand Cricket medical team in determining the best recovery management programme for him.

"He's been in great form recently and we are hopeful and optimistic this injury will not keep him sidelined for too long."

If Cairns is included in New Zealand's playing XI for the match it will be as a batsman and fieldsman only.

"Chris feels he is ready to step back into international cricket and he is looking forward to testing himself at the highest level," New Zealand chairman of selectors Sir Richard Hadlee said.

"Had Jacob not been injured Chris would have been considered for the game in Auckland."