Nash's fingers crossed

Medical checks this week could show whether or not Dion Nash, recently invalided out of the New Zealand cricket tour of Africa, will be able to play for Auckland in the domestic Shell series this summer.

Nash, usually an aggressive medium-fast bowler, tried a few overs of gentle off-spin during a club match in Auckland on Saturday and yesterday batted for Auckland in the Max match against Northern Districts.

Nash scored 38, two fours and two sixes, from only 14 balls, and tried to bat with all his old energetic freedom.

"Dion felt a twinge or two after bowling in the club game on Saturday," said Blair Pocock, the Auckland captain.

"He threw himself about when he was batting, and I think he felt the old back injury," said Pocock.

"He will have some tests this week, and then we should know whether he will be able to play for Auckland in the Shell Cup and longer matches. We could certainly use someone of Dion's ability and experience."