Cricket: Twose defends bowling choice

WELLINGTON - Captain Roger Twose has defended his decision not to bowl out Wellington's most penetrative attacker, Carl Bulfin, during the 49-run loss to Canterbury in the Shell Cup cricket final at the Basin Reserve.

Fast-medium bowler Bulfin, who sent shockwaves through the toporder Canterbury batting in dismissing internationals Llorne Howell and Nathan Astle, bowled only eight of his 10 overs.

Instead, left-arm spinner Glen White bowled his full complement of 10 overs, conceding 56 runs. His first seven-over spell cost 37, and his last three 19. He was used at a time when Bulfin appeared the better option.

Canterbury were staggering at 103 for five in the 24th over, yet still managed to reach 217 for seven in their 50 overs, captain Gary Stead top-scoring with 84.

Had the fiery Bulfin been recalled earlier, Wellington may have been able to restrict Canterbury to around 180.

In the end he had figures of two for 38 from his eight overs, and looked worthy of consideration for the New Zealand team at the May-June World Cup in England.

Twose said he regarded White as a better option because the pitch had slowed up, and slower bowlers Gavin Larsen and Mark Jefferson had been particularly effective.

"It seemed the faster anyone bowled the easier they were to score off so I held `Bully' back," Twose said. "Glen bowled excellent line and length, and with his lack of pace I thought he'd be harder to score off. In hindsight, I'd have done the same thing."

Departing Wellington coach Bob Carter said it was Twose's call, but he enthused about how well Bulfin had bowled in his first spell.

In six overs he had two for 25, using the freshness in the pitch after Wellington had won the toss, and he looked a potential match-winner.

"It was the first time Carl had bowled so fast this season, and he now has to be a very serious candidate for the World Cup," Carter said.

It was the international-studded Canterbury side's sixth Cup victory in eight seasons, and the loss added to Wellington's agony.

For Wellington, it was their seventh appearance in a final, and their seventh loss since last tasting success in the 1990-91 final.

Twose and Carter agreed Wellington had their chances of victory, and had been unable to seize them.

The Wellington batsmen started their chase for 218 positively, but lost their way after the fall of the first wicket at 33. They were eventually dismissed for 168. - NZPA

Pictured: Canterbury skipper Gary Stead grabbed the Shell Cup and man of the match with his vital innings of 84. PICTURE / FOTOPRESS