Cricket: Papps should have got call-up, says coach

Michael Papps

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Canterbury coach Dave Nosworthy believes there was only one player who should have replaced the injured Lou Vincent and that is the in-form Michael Papps.

Vincent is out of the World Cup after fracturing his wrist in the nets, with Hamish Marshall named to join the Black Caps as his replacement.

Nosworthy is surprised Papps has been overlooked. He says although he is a bit biased he would have taken Papps because of his magnificent form and his experience in international cricket . He says it is a shame if Papps has been overlooked just because he was not part of the initial 30-man World Cup squad.

Papps scored heavily in the State Championship final to complete a superb season.

Northern Districts drew with Canterbury in the five-day final to clinch the crown, after the match was called off at tea on day five with Northern 258 for two in the second innings. Hamish Marshall was 80 not out.

Northern Districts skipper James Marshall says they have developed significantly over the last few years. He says the side is starting to grow with the older players scoring more consistently and they have seen the benefits of that this season.

Marshall says the unbeaten partnership of 149 between his brother Hamish and Alun Evans made for an enjoyable final day. Evans finished on 104.

Nosworthy says it was unrealistic to expect Canterbury would take eight wickets in the final session as Northern had selected their side to bat down to 11.

- NEWSTALK ZB