Nash has battle to claw his way back
From NZPA/NZ Herald, January 23, 2002

SYDNEY - Dion Nash wants to play a part for New Zealand in the one-day tri-series, but his ticket into the starting line-up could depend on how he performs in today's match against an Australian Country X1.

With fellow Auckland allrounder Andre Adams, Nash has been sidelined throughout New Zealand's campaign and is itching to prove himself at Bradman Oval in Bowral, New South Wales.

The New Zealand selectors have been cautious with the injury-prone 30-year-old, saying they wanted him to recover fully from the groin strain he picked up in the warm-up match against Australia A two weeks ago.

"I'm a bit lacking in match fitness at this stage," Nash said yesterday.

"[The injury] has just been niggling away. It's nothing too serious. I'm looking forward to having a game and hopefully I can come through that well and kick on from there."

If Nash were to be selected for New Zealand's next tri-series games - against Australia and then South Africa in an Adelaide double-header this weekend - he would logically replace Wellingtonian James Franklin.

However, the selectors might be wary of breaking up a winning combination.

Also, Franklin provides options with his left-arm swing bowling with the new ball, which has improved over New Zealand's four tournament games.

Although the 21-year-old has been hit for more than five runs an over in each match, he has looked increasingly more likely to take wickets as his confidence has grown.

Nash accepted it may be difficult to force a spot for himself.

"The other guys have been playing well and there hasn't been that opportunity to walk straight into the side," he said.

"That in itself is great as far as the team is concerned. The way the guys have been playing has been fantastic and you've got to admire that. But certainly I'd love to be a part of it myself.

"I've just got to stay focused and keep myself fit so I can take my chance when it comes along."

A veteran of 77 one-day games, Nash has taken 59 wickets at an average of 43.06. His combative nature is seen as an added bonus.

He was delighted that New Zealand found themselves leading the competition, despite not yet having put in the allround performance they were seeking.

"Guys are standing up in pressure situations and showing a lot of spirit, but we haven't had our best match together yet."

He said the team remained well aware of the challenge that lay ahead.

The New Zealanders arrived in Bowral - where cricket's greatest player Sir Don Bradman grew up - yesterday afternoon. Their opponents are made up of players who compete in country leagues around Australia. The game starts at midday.

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