CRICKET STRENGTH

Star (Christchurch), Issue 17245, 11 January 1924, Page 8

CRICKET STRENGTH

AN AUCKLAND CLAIM AND A COMPLAINT. (Special to the “ Star.'*) AUCKLAND. January 11. Commenting editorially on cricket matters, the “ New Zealand Herald ” says: - Auckland ha 9 had the satisfaction of gaining another substantial victory Oil the home ground in the series of matches being played for the Plunket Shield. This offer 3 some compensation for the very complete defeat suffered at the hands of Wellington on a Wellington ground. In accordance with tile system now followed. Auckland ■fcfli has a chance of obtaining the trophy, but the most optimistic follower of the game would not describe it as especially good. If Wellington defeats Otago in the last match of the aeries—and this seems very probable—there will be no further question about it; If, on the contrary. Otago wins, the matter will resolve itself into a calculation of averages, and in this event also Wellington is in a strong potiiloa. 44 However, there need be no undue regret if the trophy prove unattainable this year The matches n> which Auckland played produced good cricket and were played in excellent spirit. That it* the first consideration, with possession of the trophy a long way behind in importance, So far as the shield series has proceeded, it confirms the contention already advanced that the main strength of Nen Zealand cricket a present lies in the North Island. That circumstance makes all the more anomalous the itinerary arranged for the forthcoming tour of the Australian team. Wellington province fares well enough, but the remainder of the North Island receives scanty consideration. 44 Hie balance of matches is ab•nrdly «'n favour of the South Island. I%rhaps the New Zealand Council has Mffne explanation to give, but if so it fo alow in making it. The Plunket Shield series served. among other to throw into bolder relief the Unsatisfactory apportionment of ■Mferhes with the Australians.”