Coin carried to cricket captains

Rotorua's Jayme Martin had a big part to play in New Zealand's one day international match against England, helping them win the toss.

The 9-year-old St Mary's School pupil won the chance to go out on the field before yesterday's match in Hamilton, escorting the coin to the umpire for the official coin toss.

He was chosen after his mother, Melissa Martin, entered him into a competition run by ANZ.

He said his favourite part of the day was getting to meet Black Caps captain Brendon McCullum on the field.

"He was nice. I told him he was my favourite player," Jayme said. "He asked me if I would like him to sign my cricket bat."

Jayme, a batter, said he wanted to be a big hitter just like McCullum.

Jayme was also given a cap and shirt to wear during the day by ANZ, and had his mum, dad and brother alongside him at the game.

Mrs Martin said Jayme also met England captain Alastair Cook.

She said he was quite nervous before going out on to the field but really enjoyed himself.

"He said he wasn't [nervous] but I think he was."

Jayme loves playing cricket and has played for the St Mary's hardball cricket side for the past four years.

He has also watched his elder brother, Ethan, 15, play cricket for the Northern Districts Maori side.