BLACKCAPS head to Darwin to prepare for Sri Lankan heat

The BLACKCAPS will arrive in Darwin this week to complete preparations for their One-Day International tri-series against India and Sri Lanka.

They will play three 50-over matches against Indian domestic team, Maharashtra, as they acclimatise to conditions and get some match fitness.

Coach Mark Greatbatch said Darwin’s hot and humid conditions will be good preparation for conditions the team will face in Sri Lanka.

“It will be a challenging few days against some handy opposition,” Greatbatch said. “The guys are itching to get out there against Maharashtra and get some game time under their belts.

“Net training is useful but match practice is different and will be vitally important for our guys.

“Everyone has been working hard and smart on their fitness, skills and plans for playing One Day International Cricket

“We are looking at working very hard on tour so we build our confidence to compete well in the tri series”

Greatbatch feels it will be a huge achievement if the team can win the series in sub continent conditions against the power houses of India and Sri Lanka.

“The team is a relatively young side without Daniel Vettori and Brendon McCullum but it gives other players an opportunity to express their natural talent on the International stage.”

“We're building towards the first One-Day International and are confident we will be ready when it really matters,” Greatbatch concluded.

The BLACKCAPS depart Darwin for Sri Lanka on Sunday 1 August and their first One-Day International in Dambulla is against India on 10 August.

Matches in Darwin:

BLACKCAPS v Maharashtra – 50-over match
Monday 26 July

BLACKCAPS v Maharashtra – 50-over match
Wednesday 28 July

BLACKCAPS v Maharashtra – 50-over match
Friday 30 July

BLACKCAPS in Sri Lanka schedule:
http://www.blackcaps.co.nz/schedule/blackcaps-in-sri-lanka-tri-series/25/series.aspx