Cricket: Hood set for debut against Auckland

By TERRY MADDAFORD

Northland middle-order batsman Brett Hood is poised to make his debut for Northern Districts in next week's clash with Auckland in Hamilton.

The 27-year-old Hood, who scored a century against Counties last weekend, is the only newcomer in the ND side named yesterday for the first three Shell Trophy matches.

Former test bowler Matt Hart, who missed last season through injury, has been given more time by the selectors in his attempt to play his way back into the side, who will again be captained by his brother, Robbie.

Grant Bradburn, who has played 97 first-class games for ND, is poised to break Andy Roberts' long-standing record of 104 in the new-look, 10-match season.

The ND side also feature the return to top-class cricket for Simon Doull, who with Graeme Aldridge and Joseph Yovich, will spearhead the attack.

Injured international Scott Styris was not considered but may come into contention once he is fit.

The squad for the four-day games at WestpacTrust Park (starting on Wednesday), against Central Districts at Owen Delany Reserve in Taupo and away against Canterbury is:

Robbie Hart (capt), Graeme Aldridge, Mark Bailey, Grant Bradburn (vice-captain), Simon Doull, Brett Hood, James Marshall, Bruce Martin, Michael Parlane, Neal Parlane, Alex Tait and Joseph Yovich. Daryl Tuffey and Hamish Marshall (in South Africa with New Zealand) and Scott Styris and Daniel Vettori (injured) were not considered.