"Sensational" Nash ready to fill Fleming's boots
By Dylan Cleaver
From the Sunday News, 7 December 1997

IF Stephen Fleming is no longer wanted as New Zealand skipper, Northern coach John Bracewell says he has the ideal replacement.

When Dion Nash was named skipper for the Northern conference team, there were rumblings about whether he was mature enough. It was also thought he should concentrate on recovering from the back injury which has hampered his bowling for years.

Bracewell has been vindicated and, through performance alone, Nash should have cast aside any doubters.

Northern have made both finals, at home for the four-day final. Nash scored a century against Central and looks to be back on track with his bowling.

Bracewell had high praise for his skipper.

"He has sensational potential as a leader. He's viciously competitive and combative. He thinks outside the squares and acts on his instincts."

Bracewell said he was respected by his fellow players.

One of the pleasing aspects for Bracewell had been the confidence Nash had in his two spinners.

"Both Matthew Hart and Mark Haslam have complemented each other really well.

"They've been allowed to attack and gain confidence because our seamers have kept it tight and the captains had faith in their ability to get wickets."

Bracewell also praised allrounders Hart and Nash for their batting and bowling but was less impressed with the one-day pitches.

Blair Pocock comes into the squad for the final.

Team (from): Nash, Pocock, Phil Chandler, Michael Parlane, Mark Bailey, Aaron Barnes, Hart, Grant Bradburn, Gareth Hopkins, Chris Drum, Chris Pringle, Alex Tait, Kerry Walmsley.

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