New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum is to make a rare appearance for Otago in the third round of the Plunket Shield starting on Thursday.
McCullum will captain Otago in their game against Canterbury at Rangiora, a good late opportunity for some red ball cricket before the first test against SriLanka starts in Christchurch on Boxing Day.
He replaces Ryan Duffy in the only change to the 12 that was beaten by Northern Districts in the last round.
"It is obviously fantastic to welcome Brendon into the squad for this week," Otago coach Dimitri Mascarenhas said.
"Not only are we gaining an exceptional player but we are getting a guy who will bring a lot of enthusiasm, experience and a positive vibe to the dressing room.
"It is natural that the rest of the group will enjoy having Brendon around, it's a rare opportunity for some of our younger guys to play with the national captain".
Among a group of six players not considered for the match due to injury is batsman Jesse Ryder, who has not played for Otago since November 13.
