THE SECOND TEST.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 57, Issue 236, 17 July 1937, Page 7

THE SECOND TEST.

COMMENT ON ENGLISH TEAM.

SELECTORS SEEK MORE STRENGTH.

.United Press Association—Copyright 3 LONDON, July 15.

For the second Test match against New' Zealand, to be played at Old Trafford, Manchester, on July 24, 26 and 27, the English selectors hdYe made obvious attempts to strengthen the attack, dropping Voce, Gover and Verity and substituting Wellard, Smith, Goddard and Brown. ’• •

Wellard and Smith are both fine fast-medium bowlers, though; neither is quite so speedy as the Surrey express, Gover, or the Kentish schoolmaster, Fames. The latter is not available for the Manchester Jest. Neither Verity nor Langridge was chosen, and England has no left-hand bowler. Goddard’s selection is 'a threat to the success of the tourists’ batting, as throughout the tour they have shown uncertainty against well-controlled offspinners.

Brown's inclusion is a surprise, even after his success for Gentlemen against Players. He played, against New Zealand in 1931, and toured Australia and New Zealand with D. A. R. Jardine’s team. He has made few appearances this season. He was vfery successful with his leg-breaks and googlies against Yorkshire. It is probable that Goddard and Brown will both play if the forecast is for changeable weather. If the forecast is for fine weather and thewicket is hard, it is likely that Goddard will be omitted. The selectors show that they are satisfied with the hatting - by retaining Hutton, Barnett, Hammond, Paynter, Hardstaff, Parks and Ames. They have strengthened an already strong batting side .by including the successful hardhitters, Brown, Wellard and Smith. The New Zealand team will not be picked until the morning of the match. Tindill is visiting his wife’s relatives in Ireland, and the hard-worked Cowie is spending a holiday in Scotland. Carson, who 'is! 2V to-day,' is celebrating his birthday by crossing the border between England and Scotland.