By CricketCountry Staff
New Zealand cricketer Jesse Ryder was on Friday axed from the squad for the first Test against South Africa on the basis of poor form and not his latest drinking bout.
Published: Mar 02, 2012, 02:15 PM (IST)
Edited: Mar 02, 2012, 02:15 PM (IST)
Rob Nicol has played eight ODIs and as many Twenty20s for New Zealand © AFP
By CricketCountry Staff
Auckland: Mar 2, 2012
New Zealand cricketer Jesse Ryder was on Friday axed from the squad for the first Test against South Africa on the basis of poor form and not his latest drinking bout.
The selectors included batsman Rob Nicol and all-rounder Andrew Ellis in the 13-member squad for the first Test, which will be played from at Dunedin.
“Both Rob and Andrew have shown promise against South Africa in limited overs cricket and we believe they can transfer their form across to the Test matches,” said New Zealand selection manager Kim Littlejohn.
The 27-year-old left-handed batsman Ryder has Test batting average of 40.93 and an ODI average of 34.37, but has been affected several times by incidents involving alcohol.
John Wright, the New Zealand coach has slammed Ryder for his actions.
“He’s a talented cricketer and it’s up to him and certainly everyone has the opportunity to play if they perform and are fit and abide by some of the rules that go with being in the team,” he said.
“There are certain standards that have to be adhered to and there have to be consequences.”
When quizzed about other players helping Ryder in social situations, Wright said, “That can be difficult. Most players at that time of night are in bed… the professional ones.”
Squad:
Ross Taylor (c), Brent Arnel, Trent Boult, Doug Bracewell, Andrew Ellis, Martin Guptill, Chris Martin, Brendon McCullum (wk), Rob Nicol, Tim Southee, Daniel Vettori, BJ Watling, Kane Williamson.
