Published: Oct 29, 2019, 09:11 AM (IST)
Edited: Oct 29, 2019, 09:11 AM (IST)
Wellington Firebirds named debutant Michael Snedden in their playing XI against Canterbury on Tuesday in the ongoing Plunket Shield, making him New Zealand’s first fourth generation first-class cricketer.
Snedden is following in the footsteps of father Martin Snedden (Auckland 1977/78-1989/90), grandfather Warwick Snedden (Auckland 1946/47) and great-grandfather Nessie Snedden (Auckland 1909/10-1927/28). Both Martin and Nessie Snedden represented New Zealand, Nessie having captained his country.
Michael Snedden made his Domestic debut for the Auckland Aces last season, playing two Ford Trophy matches, but did not play first-class cricket for the side before switching to Wellington.
He is the sixth cricketer overall from the Snedden family to play first-class cricket, which also includes another of Nessie’s sons Colin (Auckland 1938/39-1947/48) – a Test representative who also went on to distinguish himself as a cricket commentator; and Nessie’s brother Cyril Snedden (Auckland 1920/21).
Canterbury captain Cole McConchie won the toss, sending in early leaders the Wellington Firebirds in the first of the second round matches at a seam-friendly Basin Reserve this morning.
Quick Ed Nuttall struck in just his second over of the day, trapping Andrew Fletcher at 1/1 in the fourth over, with Matt Henry following up in the next over, Fraser Colson caught behind to have the hosts 5/2. The Firebirds were the only side to bag the maximum points from Round One while Canterbury is looking to secure its first outright after a weather-interrupted draw to start their summer.
