McIntosh credits Horne for batting form

Tim McIntosh has credited former New Zealand opener Matt Horne for his recent batting form that earned him a call-up to the Test side for the series against West Indies.

McIntosh, who opens for Auckland, is his side's leading run-getter this season with 349 at 69.80 and said he was "over the moon" at being picked. "I've been working closely with Matt Horne, who's on Auckland Cricket's coaching board this year," McIntosh told the Sunday News. "He's been very successful, opened the batting for New Zealand and he knows my game having played with me. We worked out a strategy on how to approach good bowling, we have persisted with that for a couple of seasons and I think we're seeing some benefits."

McIntosh felt he had a consistent base to his game which was important in succeeding at the highest level. "You reach an age and you always feel like if you persist with something long enough you'll get rewarded at some point. That's how I feel about my game. You work out what works for you and if you stick to that you see some success come your way."

McIntosh felt playing the West Indians in the tour game in which he scored 78 helped him gain some experience ahead of the first Test next week. "They [West Indians] are missing a couple of their stronger bowlers but it is nice to get out there and have a crack against them and I think that will help."

Glenn Turner, the New Zealand selector, said McIntosh had justified his selection with his form in the State Championship. "We're keen to select players who are in form and you can do that in a home series," Turner said. "Obviously, those positions haven't been solved yet and we just believe in giving people an opportunity, so let's just find out. If you post the numbers you deserve a chance. He's also a left-hander which obviously helps, when you've got the left hand-right hand combination opening."