While it's been a long time between drinks for Ian Butler, his test recall should not be seen as unexpected.
The 31-year-old has been one of the standout performers in the Plunket Shield this summer, so from that perspective his inclusion is completely justified.
But then it has been more than eight years and two bulging discs since Butler last played test cricket.
It is not a story the Otago seamer wanted to dwell on but the facts are he came off the field after playing for New Zealand against Australia in a one-dayer in December 2004 and could barely walk. He did not realise at the time but he had severe disc compression and bulging discs.
He wondered whether he would be able to bowl again and missed the 2005-06 season, before making a comeback as a specialist batsman for Northern Districts second XI.
Gradually, through striking a balance between hard work and managing his injury, Butler has been able to bowl more each year and for the past few years has felt as though he could play test cricket again if called on.
That call came when news broke Doug Bracewell had cut his foot. Bracewell was yesterday ruled out which means Butler has an excellent chance of making the starting XI.
It is a toss up between Butler and spinner Bruce Martin. But the University Oval pitch has not taken much turn this summer and Otago has been successful on the surface by bowling first and making the most of any life in it on the opening day.
If Butler gets the opportunity to add to his eight test caps it will be a special moment.
''I try not to put too much of a spin on [my back injury] but I'm pretty happy with the way things are going,'' Butler said.
''Whether it is a club game, first-class game or a test match, I'm just pretty stoked to be playing and I will always give my best.
''I'm not going to lie - [playing a test] would be pretty awesome. For five years, I did think my test career was from 2002 to 2004 and finished. ''If you keep putting the performances out there, you are going to get a chance, eventually.
''It is unfortunate for Dougie and I feel for him. But it is a great chance for me if I get a go.''
Embankment tickets are sold out for the first day, and limited spaces are available for tomorrow and Friday.
A New Zealand Cricket spokeswoman said last night about 800 tickets remained in the stands for each day of the test.
The crowd capacity is about 5300.
