Cricket: Whangarei fan joins Williamson, Holder for ODI toss

James Bailey joined Jason Holder and Kane Williamson for the toss during the one-day international clash between the Black Caps and West Indies at Cobham Oval. Photo/supplied

A local Whangarei cricket fan had the opportunity of a lifetime ahead of the Black Caps' win over the West Indies at Cobham Oval.

Ten-year-old James Bailey joined opposing captains Kane Williamson and Jason Holder on the pitch for the coin toss, which the Black Caps won.

Bailey attends Maungakaramea Primary School and has been playing cricket since he was 3.

"My favourite part was getting to meet the captains Kane Williamson and Jason Holder, that was really fun."

James loves playing cricket at home with his dad on weekends and at school during lunchtime. James hopes to become a policeman when older.

Head of sponsorship at ANZ Sue McGregor said James was one of 27 kids being selected to take part in the pivotal prematch moment during this year's summer of cricket.

"We hope that connecting young players with their heroes will help inspire the next generation of Kiwi cricketers," she said.

"There's a magic that happens when fans take part in the match and meet these great players. We try to get these young cricketers involved as much as we can."

The ANZ coin toss activity is part of its support for cricket at all levels in New Zealand.

The Black Caps took out the match at Cobham Oval by five wickets in the first of three ODIs between the sides.