Cricket: More depth in new squad says Auckland coach

By RICHARD BOOCK

Auckland cricket coach Mark O'Donnell believes this season's squad will be better than the one that carried off last year's four-day championship title.

A feature of the 17-strong squad announced yesterday was the return of former New Zealand paceman Kerry Walmsley and limited-overs specialist Paul Hitchcock.

The gains are expected to give Auckland more of a cutting edge in the new- ball attack, and even more depth in their one-day bowling options.

"Our bowling effort last season was the surprise package because there wasn't a whole lot of penetration," O'Donnell said. "But Kerry will make a big difference in that regard, and he will also help create a better balanced attack.

"Having Paul back in the one-day team will also be a big plus because there will be more competition for places within the squad, and that's good if you can harness it the right way."

Brooke Walker has been retained as captain for the State-sponsored competition.

The team: Brooke Walker (c), Andre Adams, Aaron Barnes, Tama Canning, Paul Hitchcock, Matt Horne, Llorne Howell, Tim Lythe, Tim McIntosh, Andy McKay, Kyle Mills, Rob Nicol, Craig Pryor, Mark Richardson, Gareth Shaw, Kerry Walmsley, Reece Young.