Nash relishes return to fray
By James McOnie
From the Waikato Times, January 9, 1998

Dion Nash is back.

Today in Brisbane the 26-year-old Northern Districts all-rounder resumes his international cricket career after a two-year absence because of ligament damage to his lower back.

This time last year Nash was surfing at Whangamata.

Just a couple of weeks ago, he thought he would be watching tonight's one-dayer between New Zealand and South Africa from a couch on this side of the Tasman.

Nash said his selection this time meant more to him than his first in 1992.

"I may have taken it for granted when I was younger.

"That lay-off taught me that I love cricket, how much I missed it and how much I want to play for my country."

In response to questions about his fitness, Nash said he was now keener than ever, that he has fully recovered, and that he will bowl at full pace.

He has joined a team under fire but in a positive mood.

"There's a great team spirit that I don't think has been reported back home," he said. "And the confidence of the young guys like Daniel Vettori and Craig McMillan has rubbed off on the other players."

The match screens live on TV3 from 4pm.

[Articles]