Fast bowler likes Tawa’s North City
Hamish Bennett is keen to add to his one test and 14 one day internationals for New Zealand, and North City Cricket Club is a step on his path back.
The Canterbury fast bowler made his international debut in 2010 and played at the 2011 World Cup, but has had a career blighted by ankle, Achilles tendon and back injuries.
He last played for New Zealand in early 2014, against India.
The 29-year-old said the move to Wellington last month to join the Firebirds fitted with his aspirations of an international comeback.
He was happy to make Tawa’s North City his home club.
‘‘I spoke to Matt [Bell, head coach at Norths] and the work that has been done to get the club back to premier grade appealed to me,’’ he said.
‘‘He’s got that dedication to the game you have to love.
‘‘Norths are getting back on their feet and look like they’re doing everything right, so I’m keen to be involved.’’
Aside from some matches early in the new club season, it will be unlikely Bennett, or fellow Firebird Michael Pollard, will be seen much in Norths’ colours.
‘‘You always want club cricket to be strong,’’ Bennett said.
‘‘While I’ll be focusing on first class stuff, whenever it fits in, I’ll be back whenever I can to help out.’’
North City Cricket Club chairman Dominic Rogerson said it was fantastic to have a player of his calibre on board.
Bennett will have a mentor role and provide valuable advice to the seam bowlers, Rogerson said.
‘‘Coming from Canterbury, Hamish had the opportunity to choose any club to go, but he liked the ideals and philosophies we’re trying to instil here.
‘‘We recognise he may not be around to play much, but he’s committed to come to trainings as often as he can and participate in our leadership group.
‘‘He wants to give back and that’s exciting.’’
Rogerson said pre-season work is well under way, especially indoors at the Mana cricket facility, with both seniors and juniors enjoying getting stuck in.
Bad weather had put the skids on some matches and tournaments.
The first match of this year’s senior cricket season is on October 15. North City will likely be playing at home at Linden Park.