New Zealand’s ’15th bowler’ in line for Black Caps debut

Ben Sears is keen to “have a go” despite conceding he’s far from a first-choice for the Black Caps.

Photo: PHOTOSPORT

The Wellington fast bowler is in line to make his international debut in the five match Twenty20 series against Bangladesh in Dhaka, starting on Wednesday night.

Sears is part of a second-string Black Caps squad, not featuring any of the players selected for the Twenty20 World Cup in the U.A.E. later in the year.

“It’s a bit of a weird tour. [I’m] probably the 15th bowler in the country picked for it because everyone’s out,” Sears said.

“It’s a bit weird when you look at it like that, but it’s just an awesome opportunity to come over and have a go. It’s pretty wild.”

Sears, 23, has found Dhaka “eye-opening” and “really hot” since arriving last week.

“First time at training to be honest that I’ve experienced being that hot. Learning how to play and bowl when you’re feeling uncomfortable was interesting.”

Sears is capable of bowling in excess of 140kph, but knows he’ll have to mix it up if he plays in Bangladesh.

Photo: PHOTOSPORT

“I try to bowl fast but the wickets are different you need to be smarter with it.

“The fast ones sometimes in those nets feels like that’s the one that might get smashed.

“So it’s just picking and choosing when to bowl what and maintaining variety.”

Ben Sears has been leaning on Thilan Samaraweera for advice about playing on the sub-continent.

The former Sri Lankan batsman is part of the Black Caps coaching staff in Bangladesh.

“It’s amazing being able to have a guy like that involved. He averages 48 in test cricket so just trying to get what information I can from him,” Sears said.

“Obviously he’s a batsman…but he told me he got Brian Lara out, he’s got a few of the greats in his back pocket, quite a few more than me at the moment even though he was just a part-timer so he’s got a lot to offer.”