KEY POINTS:
Northern Districts coach Andy Moles has been forced to mix youth with experience for the resumption of the four-day State Championship cricket competition on Monday.
With Daniel Vettori and Daryl Tuffey on Black Caps duty against Australia and injuries to bowlers Mark Orchard and Te Ahu Davis, Moles has brought in the likes of New Zealand under-19 player Tim Southee, who could make his first-class debut against Otago in Dunedin.
"Despite a disappointing State Shield one-day performance, we remain positive and look to build on the batting strength we showed during the [one-day] competition," Moles said.
"If our bowlers can hit the necessary areas consistently we can give ourselves every chance of winning. With only eight points separating five teams, we have every chance of challenging for a spot in the finals."
Northern displayed some fine batting performances during the one-day competition from James and Hamish Marshall, Grant Robinson, Alun Evans and BJ Watling.
Daniel Flynn will be playing for Bay of Plenty this weekend and will act as a sub fielder for the Black Caps on Tuesday at Seddon Park.
ND Squad v Otago at the University Oval from Monday:
James Marshall (captain), Graeme Aldridge, Brent Arnel, Alun Evans, Nick Horsley, Hamish Marshall, Bruce Martin, Grant Robinson, Tim Southee, BJ Watling, Brad Wilson, Joseph Yovich.
- NZPA
