Cricket: One-day play gives Northern chance to recover form

A return to one-day cricket's gaudy uniforms and white balls is a welcome relief for the struggling Northern Districts side.

They begin their defence of the State Shield today when they play Wellington in Hamilton.

As well as a chance for redemption after a horror start to the season, it may also be the change of pace the side badly need; an opportunity to open up and take some chances.

Last year, playing State Shield games transformed Northern's season as they recovered from a grim State Championship start.

It improved their four-day performance and they went on to win the one-day competition.

This season, as they reach the mid-season break in the State Championship, they lie last, having lost three of their five games outright.

On Tuesday, a seasoned and mentally tougher Wellington side took just an hour on the fourth day to wrap up a 94-run win at Westpac Park as Northern were bowled out for 221, chasing 316 for victory.

Coach Bruce Blair said a fresh competition could be a bonus for players who were out of form.

"One-day cricket is the sort of game where every team has a chance on the day. We're looking forward to defending the shield."

Blair pinpointed as problem areas batsmen's lack of footwork and an inability to play long innings.

Today's game begins at midday.

In tomorrow's matches, Central play Auckland in New Plymouth and Otago host Canterbury at Alexandria.

Northern: Robbie Hart (capt), James Marshall, Nick Horsley, Grant Robinson, Matthew Hart, Jamie Lee, Mark Orchard, Joey Yovich, Bruce Martin, Graeme Aldridge, Gareth West. 12th man: Te Ahu Davis.

- NZPA