Mark Greatbatch
Some of New Zealand's most popular cricket characters
will take on Otago Country's best at Molyneux Park on Sunday,
February 19.
The festival game has been arranged to help boost spirits in
the local community after the disappointment of missing out
on an HRV Cup game earlier this summer.
Alexandra was scrubbed from the itinerary when New Zealand
Cricket withdrew the ground's warrant of fitness due to
concerns over the delay in appointing a groundsman.
Otago Country board member Shayne O'Connor said the New
Zealand Cricket Players Association had approached the
organisation with the concept.
The twenty/20 game between Country and a Selection XI will
start at 1.30pm and entry will be by gold coin donation.
Former New Zealand players confirmed to take part include
Mark Greatbatch, Bryan Young, Roger Twose, Kerry Walmsley,
Geoff Allott and the great Ewen Chatfield.
O'Connor, a former Black Caps left-armer, will also roll the
arm over, while former Otago opener Andrew "Pumper" Hore,
former Central Districts wicketkeeper Bevan Griggs, former
Canterbury bowler Wade Cornelius and Country stalwart Lindsay
Breen will also be involved.
O'Connor said one or two other guest players might also be
enlisted.
The former Black Caps would also be available on the morning
of the game for coaching sessions.
A name, residential address, and (preferably residential) telephone number is required from readers who comment on ODT Online. These details will not be visible to site visitors.