KEY POINTS:
Jamie How's frustration at missing out on the test leg of the Black Caps' tour to South Africa was tempered yesterday, with the news that he'll form part of the 14-man squad for the four-match one-day series.
Having opened the batting in New Zealand's last three tests, the Central Districts captain was left out in favour of Michael Papps for the three tests, the first of which begins in Johannesburg on November 8.
"It's always good news to hear your name read out, especially since it had been a while, but I was a little disappointed not to make the test side," How (pictured right) told SportToday this morning.
"I know the selectors had their reasons, but it doesn't stop you being disappointed. Certainly, this is an opportunity to play my way back in, though, and I'll be doing everything I can to do well in the one-dayers.
"I haven't been told a lot about what will happen when we get there, but I'm definitely expecting to play and to establish myself in the first XI. I'm not going over there for a holiday."
How's domestic stats would indicate that test cricket is probably his future. Only that hasn't been borne out in his performances for New Zealand, where his one- day international record far outstrips his one in the longer form of the game.
"I'd like to think that my game suits both and proving that is definitely the aim. It just so happens that my opportunity to prove that has come in the one- dayers and I have to make the most of it," How said.
After a busy off- season, which included two New Zealand A tours to Australia and a stint playing for the Australian Capital Territory in the state league competition, How has spent the last four days in Napier with the Stags.
Sunday's team- building and goal- setting modules made way for net practices at Nelson Park, on Monday, along with fielding and bowling work with Travis Wilson and Vaughn Johnson from New Zealand Cricket, Pilates, eye tests and pool sessions.
"It's been good. We've got a few new faces that we've been integrating in to the group and I'm pretty happy with how it's gone," How said.
He will lead the side in their warm-up game against Northern Districts and the first State Championship clash with Otago, both being played at Nelson Park, before flying to South Africa on November 16.
- HAWKES BAY TODAY
