Bowlers will get no help at McLean Park

BY SAM WORTHINGTON

Wellington have lost one key batsman but regained another for today's round eight Plunket Shield clash with Central Districts in Napier.

Australian left-hander Stewart Rhodes, who has been a revelation in his debut Firebirds season, was not considered because of illness.

But Wellington welcome back Matthew Bell from a groin injury to open the batting and relieve Jeetan Patel of the captaincy duties.

Otherwise, the selectors have stuck with the same 12 who were badly outplayed by Northern Districts in a nine-wicket loss last week.

The unproven seam attack of Andrew Lamb, Michael Burns and Malaesaili Tugaga faces a tough four days on a McLean Park track always tailormade for batting.

Fifth-placed Wellington's title chances are over but coach Anthony Stuart said the match was still important.

"It's important long-term for these younger guys to keep improving," Stuart said.

"Understand the situation that we're in and do everything in our power to improve and turn it around. It's a big last three games for everyone. That's something that we've got to accept and bring our fringe bowlers up to speed. Bowling-wise, we've got to improve, that's the reality of it."

Runs have been flowing across the country post-Christmas but Stuart, a former Australia fast bowler, did not think the pendulum had swung too far in favour of the batsmen.

"The bowlers have got to work hard to get guys out, that's what's happening in first-class cricket at the moment.

"It's hard work, it's supposed to be hard work. If you don't bowl well enough, you get found out. If guys bowl really well and you don't respect that, then batters get found out."

A flat pitch will have new batsmen Stephen Murdoch and Michael Pollard licking their lips as they aim to cement their spots.

Karori's Murdoch, 26, made a bright start to his first-class career with 79 in the second innings against Northern, while Pollard, 20, has scored 97 in two matches.

"The young batters have come in and made a promising start but it's a matter of consistency now," Stuart said.

"Steve's got a really good temperament. It's a good start for him but the idea is that we've got to have depth and it's up to him, what he makes of his opportunity. Michael Pollard is in the same boat. Now the ball is in their court to make the most of it."

Elsewhere, competition leaders Northern Districts host Auckland in Whangarei and Otago entertain Canterbury in Queenstown.

Northern Districts have a 10-point lead and a victory with first innings points over last-placed Auckland would lock up the Plunket Shield to go with their one-day trophy.

HOW THEY LINE UP

What: Plunket Shield, round eight

Where: McLean Park, Napier

When: Today-Monday

Wellington (from): Matthew Bell (c), Cameron Merchant, Neal Parlane, Michael Pollard, Luke Woodcock, Stephen Murdoch, Chris Nevin, Jeetan Patel, Andrew Lamb, Malaesaili Tugaga, Robbie Schaw, Michael Burns

Standings: Northern 36, Otago and Central 26, Canterbury 20, Wellington 16, Auckland 8

TAB: Central $1.55, Wellington $2.30

- © Fairfax NZ News