Five to Watch

Warren Barnes

(Otago) It is a risk highlighting Barnes as a player to watch, given how often that is all he can do himself. But the injuryprone fast bowler has to be one of the more exciting talents in the Volts. He is properly quick. He gets swing. He has a terrific yorker and decent bumper. He bowls in a Hannibal Lecter mask. Oh, and he has 15 wickets at an average of 11.86 in two firstclass games.

Lockie Ferguson

(NZ) Give the man a red ball and stand back. He is the best fast bowler in the Plunket Shield and has the credentials to succeed at test level. We can think of one Black Caps seamer who is perhaps lucky to have his spot. Move over Tim Southee — it is Lockie Ferguson’s turn [insert hashtag here and get the campaign started].

Akila Dananjaya

(Sri Lanka) Yep. Sri Lanka is touring . . . again. It is possible Mahamarakkala Kurukulasooriya Patabendige Akila Dananjaya Perera — Akila Dananjaya to his mates — might not feature much, but we really wanted to put his name in print. Is it the longest name in world cricket? The 25yearold spinner is more than just a commentator’s nightmare; he is very promising bowler. He has 17 test wickets in three tests and can bowl a legbreak, googly, carrom ball and doosra delivery with impressive control.

Jasprit Bumrah

(India)

Mr Slingy created a storm with his unorthodox action. It would be good to see it up close but India, of course, doesn’t come to the South Island any more. It doesn’t play tests in New Zealand either, judging by the schedule. Shame. He looks a very good bowler. Could be tricky in New Zealand conditions with the red ball.

Liton Das

(Bangladesh) The 23yearold wicketkeeperbatsman has a wonderful firstclass record and shapes as the longterm successor for regular gloveman Mushfiqur Rahim. In the meantime he will have to make an impression at the top of the Bangladesh order. He has the technique and defence needed to be successful, and averages more than 50 in firstclass cricket.