Itchy feet starting to get to me as Kiwis go to Sri Lanka

Denis Aberhart has again followed David Trist to what will this time be his greatest challenge.

Previously it was taking over from David as the coach of the Canterbury team after Tristy had revitalised a tired province and brought some exciting new talent through.

I have been involved considerably with both coaches and I just hope that Denis can continue with the good work done by Tristy, and also previously by Steve Rixon, for the CLEAR Black Caps.

The Black Caps have headed off to Sri Lanka for a tough one day tournament assignment with India and Sri Lanka. The hardest thing for the guys will be dealing with the heat. Having come from a New Zealand winter into a 30 degree, plus 80% humidity, cauldron will be tough. It will again be frustrating for me to be watching the side play.

I have to confess that I am getting very itchy feet and can't wait to get back on the field to play again.

My knee that was operated on last February is progressing extremely well and I have just begun running on it. It feels so good (although limited) to be able to run without limping around all over the place!

I am confident I will be back to bowling fitness in the next few months and with the international programme the Black Caps have this summer, I can't wait.

The Aussies showed last week what a strong unit they are. The balance of their side is quite remarkable but I think their strength lies in their whole squad, not just the playing XI.

As we saw with England, a couple of injuries to key players and a side that has been playing very good cricket and won four series in a row suddenly looks vulnerable.

In their squad Australia has in reserve, if injuries hit, players who have a lot of experience and talent so the make-up of the side doesn't really change.

Squad depth is an issue that affects all sides but Australia just seem to have players in reserve who are more capable of stepping up when required. The Black Caps last season were hit by a horrendous run of injuries and I felt for Stephen Fleming trying his best when not knowing what XI he was taking on the field.

This coming season I hope Flem can have a full complement of players to choose from and maybe because of the exposure some younger players got last year, in time, New Zealand can have a squad that possesses depth and strength.