The Prime Minister’s XI, one of Australia’s great cricketing traditions with form for turning over international opposition, has been named to face New Zealand, and it features a strong Nottinghamshire flavour.

The touring Kiwis will encounter a middle-order featuring David Hussey and Adam Voges during the showpiece 50-over fixture in Canberra on Friday.

Meanwhile, if there’s any seam and swing available with the pink ball, rest assured Peter Siddle will find it.

Left-arm spinner Ashton Agar, whose 98 on Test debut in Nottingham batting at number 11 is etched into Trent Bridge folklore, will also represent the invitational side, who emerged victorious by six wickets in their previous fixture against the Black Caps in 2009.

Michael Hussey captains a side that also contains cricketers of county experience in the shape of Joe Burns and Usman Khawaja.

Cameron Bancroft, the 22-year-old opener who was a notable selection for the recent Bangladesh tour prior to its cancellation, also makes the team just two years on from his stint playing club cricket in the East Midlands with Derbyshire Premier League side Denby.

"Given we are only a few weeks away from the first Test at the Gabba, it is an ideal opportunity for us to watch a group of highly-rated players and see how they perform against a quality New Zealand side," said Cricket Australia's national selector Rod Marsh.

“Unfortunately due to the postponed Bangladesh tour, players such as Joe Burns, Cameron Bancroft, and Usman Khawaja all missed opportunities to perform on the international stage.

"This match is a great opportunity to build on their Matador Cup performances and the strong form they displayed on the recent Australia A tour of India. 

"We're keeping a close eye on these players ahead as we prepare to select the Test squad.

"We know New Zealand will be looking for immediate success in their first match on Australian soil since the ICC Cricket World Cup final," added Marsh.

"We have chosen a very strong line-up which will benefit from the experience of players such as the Hussey brothers, Adam Voges and Peter Siddle."

Prime Minister's XI to face New Zealand: Michael Hussey (c), Cameron Bancroft, Joe Burns, Usman Khawaja, Adam Voges, David Hussey, Ryan Carters (wk), Ashton Agar, Peter Siddle, Jason Behrendorff, Mark Steketee, Ben Taylor (12th).

 

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