New Players In Men's Basketball

Press, Volume CIII, Issue 30448, 23 May 1964, Page 11

New Players In Men's Basketball

\VITH the match against ’ Nelson today being regarded as a trial by the chief selector (Mr P. Doogue), the Canterbury men’s basketball team’s chances of a victory appear extremely slim. Nelson is one of the strongest sides in New Zealand and, on its home court, it will be very surprising if it does not completely overwhelm the visitors, who will be fielding two players new to first-class representative fixtures and at least one other of doubtful quality. The two players are P. Ross (Y.M.C.A.), who is currently playing in his first season in the inter-club A grade, and B. Strong (University A), a Nelson colts representative last year. The inelusion of these two brings the total of new players tried this season to six—a situation forced on Mr Doogue by the mass withdrawal or transferring of seven of last season’s training squad.

Ross, who has worked his way up through the grades, has shown himself to be very competent. He obviously has a lot to learn but deserves the chance given him. So far, he has scored 31 points for Y.M.C.A in inter-club matches.

Strong’s main asset is his youth, but he has proved very versatile and shows considerable potential. He has played for both the A and B University club teams this season. Unfortunately, he is not quite up to the standard of most of the University A players and consequently the short spells he has had on the court have not given him a chance to show his worth. Much will depend on the performance of Bach, a member of the Wigram side relegated this season to senior reserve. Last season was not one of his best and

a poor performance could finish his representative career. He is generally sound but lacks aggression. It is pleasing to see the Y.M.C.A. stalwart, N. Saunders, again representing the province after an absence of several seasons. He is a very experienced player and the increasing streaks of grey showing through his shock of dark hair belie his youthful approach to the game. His anticipation is excellent and he can bo relied on under pressure.

Other members of the team are: R. Darsono, R. Entwistle, P. Ward, R. Zachariassen. Entwistle and Zachariassen are the only two who played against Otago in the first match of the season a fortnight ago.