NOTES ON SELECTION OF AUCKLAND TEAM.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18946, 17 December 1929, Page 10

NOTES ON SELECTION OF AUCKLAND TEAM.

(Special to the “Star.”) AUCKLAND, December 17. The Plunket Shield selectors sprang a mild surprise by picking Elliott against Otago, as he was not included in the number chosen for representative practice. However, nobody will cavil at Elliott’s selection, as he has been one of the most consistent club batsmen of the season, besides which he is a very useful bowler. Elliott had some good performances to his credit last season, and as he had done well again this year his omission from representative practice created quite a little discussion. The absence of Allcott will be sadly felt, as apart from his ability as a leader he is of much value as an all-round player. He can always be relied upon to keep runs down and to contribute his share with the bat. For the past two or three seasons supporters of S. A. R. Badeley have been advocating his selection to represent the province, and they will now be on good terms with themselves. When in Auckland Badeley showed himself to be a good all-round player, and since his removal to Hamilton he has invariably done well against touring teams, with both bat and ball. He is an aggressive batsman, a good change bowler and a splendid field. Garrard has shown glimpses of his true form this season, but he has not enjoyed the best of health. However, it is to be hoped that he will be able to stand the strain of a strenuous shield match. It would not be surprising to see him captain the side. The poor club form displayed by one or two of the men must have given the selectors much food for thought. Horspool has done well in club matches, and on that form is unlucky to be overlooked. However, his representative performances during the past two or three seasons have been poor, and the selectors, apparently, have decided not to persevere with him. The team looks to be about the best that could be selected. Wensley, Anthony, Badeley, Elliott and Garrard are good all-rounders, while Mills and Weir are both useful change bowlers. The side should make a lot of runs, and has a variety in attack which should keep the opposition scoring down.