Corey Anderson, Grant Elliott return for New Zealand

Corey Anderson will make his long-awaited return from injury after being selected in the New Zealand squad for their two Twenty20 internationals against Sri Lanka next month.

All-rounder Anderson has been out of international action since May after appearing in the Lord's Test against England.

The 25-year-old has been suffering from a back injury, but was declared fit to bat against Sri Lanka.

''It's been a long process for Corey, but we've been happy with his recent progress and the fact he's managed to string a few games together for the Knights," New Zealand coach Mike Hesson said.

"We've got a plan in place for when we hope to have Corey back bowling. He's getting closer, but we'll be taking a precautionary approach.

"We've seen how dynamic a batsman he is and can threaten any bowling attack in the world.

"It'll be great to have him back in the mix."

Grant Elliott is also back in the squad after suffering a fractured wrist while training with Wellington in November.

"We're also looking forward to having Grant back with us after recovering from his arm injury," Hesson added.

"He brings a lot to the squad and obviously has experience in pressure moments, which is key to batting in the middle order in Twenty20."

The T20s in Mount Maunganui and Auckland will serve as preparation for the teams ahead of the ICC World Twenty20 in March and April next year.

Black Caps T20 squad in full: Kane Williamson (captain),  Corey Anderson, Trent Boult, Grant Elliott, Martin Guptill, Mitchell McClenaghan, Adam Milne, Colin Munro, Luke Ronchi, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor.