The Black Caps are aiming to continue their dominant winning streak over the West Indies as they change format for the today’s first ODI in Whangarei.
One of the local boys, paceman Tim Southee, says he’s hoping to put on a good performance for his region on the friendly Cobham Oval wicket.
"It's nice to come back to a region that love their sport and doesn't get a lot of international sport," he said.
After a year of injuries and other off-field issues, the all-rounder will once again play for NZ against the Windies in the first ODI.
While Southee’s participation in the match is yet to be confirmed, one player who fans will definitely see is returning all-rounder Doug Bracewell, who Kane Williamson announced yesterday would be part of the matchday 11.
"He's going really well, preparing well. It's nice to see him back from injury and he's been going really well for the start of this season so he deserves his opportunity."
Bracewell has only played in two ODIs in the past two years – his over a year ago in October against India in Dharamasala.
But having recovered from a knee injury and putting in strong performances domestically, the all-rounder has been given another chance to shine.
The batsman was struck in the leg by Ferguson while training in the nets.
The same can’t be fully said for Southee and Williamson, who will be rested for the rest of the series after the first ODI – a decision the Black Caps skipper still has mixed feelings about.
"Guys are always disappointed," he said.
"It's always hard to watch when you miss a game through anything really but it's a New Zealand Cricket initiative."
Rain is due but locals insist it will clear before the 11am start.
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