New Zealand v Sri Lanka Dec 21-Jan 26

[Mr Kiwi]

oh yeah - Mr Bond,

Apparently doing well rolling his arm over in the nets and playing as a specialist bat for his club in Christchurch. Hit 100 and something off 60-odd at the weekend so obviously enjoying himself. Says that if his back doesn't come right this time he'll quit the game for good.

Ian Butler copped a bit of stick here lately but i'd like to see him in hte team, unlike most of the other (pace) bowlers in the team in the moment he has the potential to actually take wickets. Kyle mills just got a ten-for in domestic so unfortunately that'll mean he'll get back in the team for the SL tour, Tuffey also played and got flayed by Sinclair and Jamie How (Richardson's replacement - mark my words).

[*Ben*]

I Totally agree with Jamie Howe in the black caps, but my only problem with that you need another stable opener to support a guy on debut and Papps hasnt exactly played out of his skin of late. Bond poor Bond will eventually make a return but as soon as he tries to put some pace into his delivery his back will decide to die a horrible death. Also on the subject on Butler a couple of days ago I wouldve always had him in my starting 11 as one of my first picks to take in SL but after his performances in the state sheild including bein slapped around by northen districts im having second thoughts about his inclusion but who else is there, Tuffey and Mills I guess with Oram, Vettori and a 5th bowler to be decided.

[*Ben*]

SL will also strugle with the green tops that we produce so the master of spin might be more affective as a spin bowler, SL will have to be at their best to beat NZ in the tests because at home and our surfaces the countries from the sub continent always seem to strugle, you just have to look at the indian tour a few year ago. Tuffey is also back to full fitnes and has been included in the 1 day team