Dockrell and Wilson jet in to boost Wolves
MORE than 500 international caps have arrived in Pretoria ahead of Ireland Wolves’ twomatch 50-over series against Namibia, the back-to-back games today and tomorrow (8am GMT).
Gary Wilson and George Dockrell have played 514 senior games between them and join the squad along with James McCollum (11 caps), James Cameron-Dow (5) and the uncapped Jack Tector.
However, with Wilson replacing Lorcan Tucker behind the stumps and Dockrell covering for Jacob Mulder, who impressed in the T20 series which the Wolves won 4-1, they could be playing for their places in the ODI squad which goes to Zimbabwe in April. Dockrell hasn’t taken a wicket in his last five ODIs, despite bowling 36 overs, and Wilson averaged 19 with the bat in his six games last year.
The fresh legs are welcome because two of the squad have gastro bugs, one has a chest infection and Neil Rock is flying home with a wrist injury. Selection will be made this morning.
Instonians all-rounder Shane Getkate, in his first year as a centrally-contracted player, played all five T20 games and was the only one to bowl in every match, but will play today if required.
“I’m delighted to be back in South Africa, it’s a place close to my heart,” said the Durban-born man. “Being centrally-contracted allows you to train day in, day out with top quality coaches. I’m in the squad for the T20s against Afghanistan next month and if I get the opportunity to play, I’ll giving it 100%.”