NZ Test squad hints at stodgy playing conditions

Mark Richardson, writing in New Zealand Herald, says if the indications are right and the South Africa Tests are played on slow, green, seaming tracks, it might not be the ideal way to develop New Zealand cricket.

I am not excited about ... what the selection tells me. It tells me that these test matches are more than likely going to be played on slowish, green seaming conditions. I agree with that if all I cared about was bringing the gap between the teams closer and trying to nullify the advantage the extra pace South Africans have over the Black Caps. However I don't agree this is the way forward for New Zealand as a test nation and don't believe seeing batsmen poke and prod or take their chances and slog is a particularly good spectacle.