Cricket: Selectors play tug of war with Doull

By TERRY MADDAFORD

TAUPO - Northern Districts officials will today ask New Zealand Cricket to let Simon Doull play for Northern in their four-day match against Australia.

It is understood the New Zealand selectors have asked that Doull be rested from the game starting at WestpacTrust Park on Sunday to ensure he is ready for the first test at Eden Park on March 11.

"It is not like Simon Doull is a newcomer who needs to be kept from Australian eyes," said ND selection panel convenor Bill Fowler. "I would have thought it was more important to give Simon some bowling as he has only bowled 18 overs since coming back." Northern coach and fellow selector, Chris Kuggeleijn, said: "It would be nice for us to be able to put out a full-strength side against the best team in the world."

Doull is likely to play in the next one-day international at Napier on Wednesday, but that would be in different conditions to a test match.

Dykes is saying little at this stage, but will be talking with the other selectors and the Black Caps coach and captain as well as Kuggeleijn and Fowler today before any final decision is reached.