Cloete race hots up
The CricketWeb Black side have added their name to the list of sides interested in CricketWeb XI star Andrew Cloete. Following a fall-out at Green, rumoured to be over who thought Muralitharan was the biggest chucker, Cloete is set to leave the side. With the Black team short of specialist batting options following the retirements of Twyman, Smith and Moon, Cloete would be an invaluable addition to the side.
Richards re-assured
Left-arm spinner Dave Richards has been told that he remains very much a part of the plans at the Sydney Cricket Ground, following rumours that he may be on the way out. With the track likely to take spin, his control could play a crucial part in the side's approach, especially in the longer form of the game.
Batsmen on the most-wanted list
As mentioned, whilst having more bowlers than you can shake what remains of the Canterbury Tree at, the Black side are in need of batting depth with very little experience in a fragile-looking top order. Whilst players such as Butler, Blackman, Chaulk, Kearsley, Ferd and Wilson are undoubtedly talented, there is a distinct need for solidity in a very young top order. Norwegian Håkon Mork is said to be top of the Black target list, whilst skipper Neil Pickup has openly expressed his desire for volunteers to come forward to open the batting, or take on a more defensive role from his current line-up. All Black team members are encouraged to add him to their MSN lists!
Hinton on the way out?
With the SCG track likely to favour spinners, medium-pacer Chris Hinton isn't likely to feature in many team selections, with his poor batting an additional liability in a team already carrying rabbits Broadbent and Pickup. Rumours are already suggesting he may be among the first to depart.