Hopkins switches to Auckland

Gareth Hopkins has transferred to Auckland for the 2007-08 season to avoid a clash with Brendon McCullum, who has returned to Otago. The two are New Zealand's contracted wicketkeepers and the move should allow each of them to play first-class cricket while not on national duties.

Hopkins joined Otago four seasons ago but spent the last two years commuting from Auckland, where his wife lives and works. With McCullum's move back to Otago the time seemed right for Hopkins to switch teams. "I have enjoyed playing for Otago very much and it was a hard decision to make," Hopkins said. "I appreciate the opportunities that have come playing for Otago Cricket, and the support they have given me."

Hopkins had a prolific season for Otago last summer, scoring three centuries and averaging 85.66. However, Auckland now have the challenge of deciding how to use Hopkins and their current wicketkeeper Reece Young, who has played 68 first-class matches.

"Auckland Cricket is delighted to welcome a player of Gareth's obvious class and quality," Auckland's CEO Andrew Eade said. "His batting will clearly strengthen our top order and our selectors will have an interesting choice to make regarding the wicketkeeping berth, as the incumbent Reece Young is also very accomplished behind the stumps and has served Auckland well for many years."

Ross Dykes, the CEO of Otago Cricket, said it was disappointing to lose Hopkins but he understood the decision. "We appreciate that in each of the last two years it has been difficult for Gareth to make the migration to Dunedin due to personal circumstances and we wish him every success in his future cricketing endeavours," Dykes said. Hopkins, who is currently playing club cricket in Netherlands, will join the New Zealand A squad in Australia early next week.