I agree GS, the associates should not be playing matches classed as test matches.

That does not mean they shouldn't be playing 5 day first class matches against each other. I can also see some value in Holland being admitted into the UK domestic programme in the same way Ireland and Scotland have been and Namibia have been in South Africa.

The trouble with this, however, is that these teams best players are not always available. Ryan ten Doeschate will play for Essex during the domestic season, Geoff Barnett of Canada will be a Central Districts opener in New Zealand ahead of any games for Canada (outside of the World Cup) - not to mention Alexei Kervesee, Dougie Brown and Eoin Morgan who all play FC cricket.

Its a tough act to balance, but one thing is certain - they should all be playing MORE cricket, not less.