Cricket: O'Connor steps up for test comeback

Pace bowler Shayne O'Connor continued his pleasing progress on the test cricket comeback trail with another two wickets for the national selection XI against Central Districts in Christchurch yesterday.

O'Connor took two for 10 from a five-over spell.

He finished the two-dayer, which was drawn, with six for 32 from 17 overs.

O'Connor is seeking to prove he is fit again after a knee injury before the New Zealand team is named for the third and final test against Pakistan.

He is expected to bowl again today in a one-day match between the teams.

Fast bowler Chris Drum's shoulder injury in the second test against Pakistan has left a vacancy in the New Zealand attack for the third test in Hamilton.

Central, who only mustered 126 in their first innings, were 106 for six in their second innings at stumps in reply to the national selection XI's 269 for six declared.

Lou Vincent was to the fore for the selection XI, top scoring with 93 from 153 balls, including 18 fours.

Off-spinner Glen Sulzberger was the pick of the Central bowlers with two for nine from 10 overs.

Central are not at full strength for the matches, as they prepare for a four-nation one-day tournament in Perth next week.

They are without leading batsmen Mathew Sinclair, Craig Spearman, Mark Douglas and English professional Ben Smith.

- NZPA