Des Kruger batting. Photo supplied.The all important home advantage lands with Mid Canterbury this weekend as Hawke Cup cricket returns to Ashburton.

A total of three changes have been made by Mid Canterbury coach Garfield Charles for their showdown with Otago Country, which starts at the Ashburton Domain Oval today.

Chances are that there will be more to offer the bowling line-ups of both teams compared to last season where the bat dominated down in the dusty trails of Alexandra’s Molyneux Park.

It was a match which should offer fond memories for Angus Jemmett, as the Ashburton teen hit 108 on Hawke Cup debut.

The young rep’s return is one of three changes for Mid Canterbury after he missed the challenge against Southland in Invercargill a fortnight ago.

Other changes are the additions of Tom Middleton and Allenton quick Mana Singh to the playing 11.

All eyes will be on Des Kruger, after his knock in Invercargill.

The Stags and rep all-rounder is in somewhat of a purple patch at the minute for both club and region.

Otago’s bowlers will be keen to see the back of him early.

Mid Canterbury who were unlucky not to claim the points against Southland should not be overawed by the visitors following on from their previous Hawke Cup meeting back in January.

Despite the visitors posting 327, Country claimed first innings bragging rights courtesy of an unbeaten 146 from captain Tim McCormick.

He won’t be a factor for Country this weekend with his name missing from the team sheet.

Country are coming off first-innings points against North Otago, although their second innings batting effort appeared tender at best, as they finished the match at 83/6 after claiming a 76-run first innings lead.

• Mid Canterbury team:

William Southby (captain), Devon Flannery, Ben Innes, Tom Innes, Angus Jemmett, Des Kruger, Tom Middleton, Karmjeet Singh, Mana Singh, Shaun Stagg

© The Ashburton Guardian - 12 December 2020