We could ask Rachel to name a technically proficient XI , but seriously we do need some more niput, maybe someone could stir things up and name Roneel Hira as theri spinner or something.

I'm a tad busy right now.. but if you narrow down the discussion to a series of {a} or {b} type decisions I will find the time to look at each option and to contribute in some way, shape or form.

No problem Racheal, I was really being a bit cheeky. Anyone's welcome to contribute though,

From across the Tasman I keep hearing about a bloke called Jessie Ryder a young big lump of a boy who apparently likes fast food and fast liquor. Probably a good candidate for a diet and exercise campaign.

I like Ross Taylor also but wouldn't he be getting close to becoming ineligiable for A-Team selection due to his international appearances ?

The match underway is his third test so by the end of the series he will have played five. Which I think means he is still eligible, just.

Well Ross's century in the test today just about cements his spot.

Hey Acker, good to see someone else is joining in on the discussion.

I'd have to say Taylor's spot was cemented a long time ago, he's been talked up as the next big thing in NZ batting for several years now, being compared to Nathan Astle and what not.

Not many stand out performances in the current round of 4 day games. The top orders of Central, Auckland and Otago all failed with only the de Boorder brothers and a bizarre tail end wag for CD (136 for Diamanti and 64 for Sherlock) salvaging their innings. Interesting to see Sherlock back from injury and now at CD via Canberra.

Weston may be the only person who's enhanced his claims at the moment. No real power-house bowling efforts, though Wellington underbowled Mark Houghton against Auckland. Very slow scoring rates throughout the country this week - must be the recent rain.

An update of these pacemen

I agree with you acker. Hiini is also a more than useful batsman with a couple of first class centuries to his name. Sadly, Canterbury have been batting him at 9 this year, behind much lesser bats.

Southee also is a must-have. I also like the look of McKay, who offers left-arm variety. Sadly, I have no idea how old he is as the cricinfo profile doesn't have his age.

EDIT: He's 27, approaching 28 according to NZ Cricket: BLACKCAPS, the official website