TelstraClear Black Caps team to meet Sri Lanka in first Test named

TelstraClear Black Caps coach Denis Aberhart today named the team to play Sri Lanka in the first Test at P Saravanamuttu Stadium in Colombo tomorrow (Friday, April 25).

The team is:

Stephen Fleming (captain)
Shane Bond
Robbie Hart
Matt Horne
Jacob Oram
Mark Richardson
Mathew Sinclair
Scott Styris
Daryl Tuffey
Daniel Vettori
Paul Wiseman

Aberhart said the balance of the side had to be altered because of Scott Styris' shoulder injury.

"Scott will be unlikely to bowl in the match and therefore we have had to include another bowler to cover the fifth bowling spot.

"In the intense heat and humidity over here the risks of entering a Test match with only four bowlers is too great.

"Unfortunately we have had to sacrifice a batsman. This lengthens our tail and puts greater pressure on our top six to perform."

Aberhart said Jacob Oram would move up to number six in the batting order and would operate as the third seamer.

"We expect the wicket will take spin but indications are there will be a bit of bounce early which should suit Jake."