Victory only option for Manawatu¯ XI

There’s no ifs, buts or bewildering statistical calculations required.

If Manawatu¯ want a shot at the Hawke Cup, they’ll have to beat Hawke’s Bay outright in this weekend’s final-round qualifying match.

They know it’s no easy task against a strong combination on what will likely be a belter of a pitch at Napier’s Nelson Park, under the scorching summer sun.

The Central Stags’ one-day campaign robs both teams of some top performers, but Manawatu¯ ’s side looks strong and settled and is always a chance when first-class players Nav Patel and Mitch Renwick are in the XI, as they are this weekend.

‘‘We know it’s a big ask, but all

we can do is give it a crack and see what happens,’’ Manawatu¯ coach Mike Mason said of the challenge. ‘‘If it’s a good wicket, we’ve got to bowl first and try to get them out real quick and bat as long as we can. If we can get a first-innings win over those guys, at least we get some sort of win, but it would be nice to get an outright and actually push for the Hawke Cup points, but it’s going to be a tough ask.’’

Batsman Logan Mchardy drops out of the team that beat Taranaki on the first innings a fortnight ago.

Mason said Mchardy’s parents are away so he’s looking after the family dairy farm. All-rounder Thomas Kuggeleijn slots into the squad for him.

Manawatu¯ ’s last visit to Hawke’s Bay ended in defeat against the home team in the Chapple Cup one-day final in October, but the dominant performance over Taranaki should give them confidence.