Cricket: Wilson may play one-day cricket only

Jeff Wilson's first-class cricketing days look numbered.

Fresh from filming TV One programme Intrepid Journeys in Bulgaria and Romania, which will screen this year, Wilson said he was looking forward to playing for Otago again this season.

However, he said there was a question mark over whether his ageing body was up to the rigours of four-day cricket.

The 31-year-old stressed he was not contemplating life after cricket just yet, but has had discussions with Otago coach Mike Hesson on how best to manage his remaining playing days.
And the solution may well be, at this stage, to limit himself to one-day matches.

"I've got to weigh up what is best for my longevity in the sport," Wilson said when asked whether he would play four-day matches this season.

"I've got to make sure my body is going to be able to handle it. But at the moment I feel great.

"As long as I'm out there competing and making a difference, it is important to me to get out there and do that.

"You are a long time retired," he added.

The former All Blacks star made his return to international cricket after 12 years in the Black Caps series against the World XI this year.

He was ruled out of the one-day international against Australia in Napier after he injured his right ankle on the morning of the match.

The injury, which forced Wilson to miss the rest of the domestic season, required an operation.

However, he said the surgery had been a success and he was ready to start bowling a few overs again.

- NZPA