Cricket: Jury still out but Goldie remains a show-stopper

If the cynical are right and it was a marketing ploy, then Jeff Wilson's return to the Black Caps was an unqualified success.

In terms of determining whether he warrants a longer and more searching examination of his skills at the highest level, it was inconclusive.

Where does a return of 1-27 stand in a total of 158? It's not as if he bowled badly, but he didn't have the opposition running for the hills either.

"I was a bit rough early on," Wilson said of his first spell at the crease - three wicketless overs at a cost of 17.

He came back well in a four-over second spell claiming a wicket and conceding just 10 runs, but his efforts were obviously overshadowed by Stephen Fleming's display later.

"It was always going to be a step up for me. Once I got my lengths right, which was pretty much the second spell, I got a bit of confidence.

"It was hard for me to take in what happened today," Wilson admitted.

Tama Canning was critical of Wilson's selection in last week's Herald on Sunday, but even he'd find it difficult to argue that Wilson adds something to any team he plays for. His captain admitted he was feeling for Wilson before he ran in and bowled his first ball.

"I was nervous standing at mid-off," Fleming said. "We want him to do well and the team was anxious for him to get back into top-level cricket.

"Today's a very important day for the team and for Jeff's development back into the side. I was rapt that he came through."

FICA World XI captain Shane Warne was also complimentary. "He seems to bowl a bit quicker than I remember," he said. " I'm sure he'll be encouraged by his performance. He is obviously talented."

Say what you like about his batting and bowling, but Wilson has always been strong under the high ball.

As Craig Spearman hit a steepling, lob wedge to mid-on, Wilson waited.

This time he didn't have to worry about someone like Stirling Mortlock waiting to crunch him, only his advancing team-mates ready to welcome him back.

It wasn't as if Wilson could avoid rugby references. He was wearing his favourite No 15 shirt and reports out of Britain suggest he will be named this week in one of the teams to take part in Martin Johnson's testimonial match at Twickenham in June.

The one thing that might preclude him taking part is if Wilson secures a New Zealand Cricket contract, which will have a clause preventing him playing sports that could cause injury.

When the game was drifting, skipper Stephen Fleming pulled a masterstroke and sent Wilson to field in front of lubricated spectators in the Port Hills End stand.

"The Canterbury crowd got stuck into me on the fence. Nothing changes," Wilson said, smiling.

Not since Sir Richard of Hadlee graced this ground has each delivery been met with such anticipation. The first ball didn't quite meet expectations; a gentle full-toss patted away.

It wasn't nerves though, unlike the first time he played for the Black Caps.

"I remember I could hardly feel the first ball I bowled in 1993; today I had an idea it was going to be a low full-toss."

Note this down for future reference: in Wilson's 29th delivery back in international cricket, he had his wicket, Hick caught by Brendon McCullum.

- HERALD ON SUNDAY