State Canterbury Magicians team named for final round

The Canterbury Cricket women's selectors have announced the State Canterbury Magicians team to play two one-day matches in the final round of the State League against the State Northern Spirit this weekend at Dudley Park, Rangiora.

There has been a month break between rounds four and five of the State League due to the World Series of Women's Cricket which was held at Lincoln during January and February.

Although the break has been lengthy, coach Vicki Burtt is adamant the team is prepared going into the final round.

"Time off for the World Series has enabled players to rest and come back re-charged for these vital matches," said Burtt.

The State Canterbury Magicians are in a position to gain a home final if they win both of these matches, however with strong Auckland and Wellington teams playing in this round also and the bonus point scheme, nothing is guaranteed.

"The team has been together this week and are very aware they must perform well to gain a much desired home final," Burtt commented.

The break between rounds has enabled bowler Helen Daly to recover from an achilles tear and opening batsman Kirsty Craig heal an injured finger.

With the unavailability of Englishwoman Claire Taylor, who has travelled to Australia with the English team before returning to England, Riccarton all-rounder Rowhan Kelly has been called into the side.

The State Canterbury Magicians play the State Northern Spirit on Saturday and Sunday, February 15-16 at Dudley Park in Rangiora, starting at 10.30am and 10am respectively.

The State Canterbury Magicians team to play the State Northern Spirit is:

Haidee Tiffen (captain)
Nicola Payne (vice-captain)
Sarah Burke
Selena Charteris
Kirsty Craig
Helen Daly
Maria Fahey
Rowhan Kelly
Beth McNeill
Rowan Milburn
Hannah Rae
Rebecca Steele