The next four weeks will see the Central Stags playing no less than five games in New Plymouth, in what has become their home away from home. And it’s that familiarity, along with a motivated squad, that gives this McDonalds Super Smash Campaign a special feeling.

The team has had mixed fortunes in the red ball format, but as attention now shifts to the shorter form of the game, there is a renewed energy and belief, something that Head Coach Heinrich Malan is encouraged by.

“It’s an exciting time of the year for us, and whilst the boys are fired up at the prospect of playing T20 cricket, there is a calmness around the squad, which I have to attribute to their collective experience playing this format” commented Malan.

Malan continued, “T20 Cricket revolves around momentum, but we are determined to take this game by game. If we can execute our game plan well, and get a result, its allows for a solid platform to grow from”.

The Stags get their Super Smash campaign underway at Pukekura Park on Sunday, a venue that has delivered some notable success for the team, and captain Will Young is pleased that the first game of the campaign starts there.

“New Plymouth has become the Stags white ball cricket home over the last few seasons, and we can’t wait to get out and play in front of our home Taranaki crowd” said Young

And as far as being ready for the challenge, Young believes that the squad has the necessary experience to ensure that the Stags deliver a memorable campaign for their fans.

“With Doug (Bracewell) returning from the Black Caps, he adds a wealth of experience and X-Factor with bat and ball. The rest of the boys have excelled in the shorter format and as a group we believe we have the experience to go the distance in this competition”, said Young

Coming into the squad for the first time this season are George Worker, who has recovered from injury, and Josh Clarkson who will play his first game this season. Missing out through injury are Jesse Ryder, Andrew Mathieson, Ross Taylor and Adam Milne

There is lots of cricket to look forward to this summer, and Central Districts Chief Executive Pete de Wet has urged Stags Fans across the country to get to the stadiums and behind their team.

“Summer and cricket go hand in hand, and this seasons McDonalds Super Smash promises to deliver excitement and fun for the whole family. It’s a time of year when families get to spend quality time together, and T20 cricket is the perfect answer to quality family entertainment” commented de Wet.

De Wet added, “Pukekura Park is a special place to watch cricket, and I would urge all our loyal fans in New Plymouth to get down to the ground on Sunday, and get behind the Stags”

The Central Stags take on the Canterbury Kings at 2pm on Sunday, 04 December 2016. In addition to the fast paced cricket action, there will be lots of entertainment and giveaways for fans, and Stags Merchandise for sale. Tickets are available from Click here or at the gate.

The Stags Squad: Will Young (Captain), Tom Bruce, Doug Bracewell, Dane Cleaver (WK), George Worker, Ben Wheeler, Marty Kain, Blair Tickner, Ryan McCone, Ben Smith, Josh Clarkson, Seth Rance

For further enquiries please contact: Pete de Wet – Chief Executive