New Zealand will field the same basic squad that finished the Sri Lankan one-day series for the first two matches of the National Bank series against Pakistan starting in Auckland on Saturday.

The side, with Nathan Astle back in for Craig Spearman, was named by the selectors today.

It is: Stephen Fleming (captain), Nathan Astle, Adam Parore, Roger Twose, Craig McMillan, Chris Harris, Jacob Oram, Lou Vincent, Daniel Vettori, James Franklin, Daryl Tuffey, Chris Martin.

Selection chairman Sir Richard Hadlee offered a firm vote of support for Stephen Fleming to continue as captain of the side.

"Stephen Fleming had the full support of the selection panel throughout the series against Sri Lanka and behind the scenes we encouraged him to continue in that role.

"He continues to have our full support as we enter the series against Pakistan," he said.

"Stephen himself has indicated that he has felt the pressure of the poor results and has been reviewing his position as captain. He has confirmed this morning that he would like to continue in the role. The selectors are very pleased with his decision as we believe he is the best man for the job," he said.

Hadlee, not surprisingly, said the selectors were heartened by the win in the final match against Sri Lanka.

They were delighted with the way young players selected for the side, Jacob Oram, Daryl Tuffey, James Franklin and Lou Vincent, all made significant contributions to the victory.

"The selection panel hopes this experience has given them the confidence to go on and demonstrate their talent to themselves, their team-mates and the public," Hadlee said.

The use of 19 players in eight One-Day Internationals at home this summer, changes in the make up of the starting XI and in the batting order had reached the point where the selectors felt there had been enough change.

"We have every confidence that these are the best 12 players.

"We want to give these players every opportunity to demonstrate their talent and they have been selected for the first two ODIs in the series accordingly," Hadlee said.

© CricInfo