Daniel Luca Vettori

Profile:

Daniel Vettori became the youngest New Zealand Test cricketer when he played against England at the age of 18 years 10 days in January 1997. The off-spinner had been plucked out of obscurity after just two first-class games by a bold selection panel. The youngster has played a leading role since that time both overseas and at home and already seems a veteran of the side. His even temperament is evident in his batting and he has become the CLEAR Black Caps' first choice nightwatchman. During The National Bank Series v West Indies last summer Vettori starred in both the Tests, taking 8 wickets at an average of 20.12 and ODIs, taking 7 at 17.85. He was one of only a few players to enhance their reputations against the Australians, capturing 14 wickets at an average of 15.57. In the first Test he claimed his 100th Test wicket, becoming the second youngest player from any country and one of just 10 New Zealanders to achieve the feat. Vettori's 12-149 in this Test were the best figures by a New Zealand spin bowler. A stress fracture in his back sent him home from the Winter tour to South Africa and he missed the start of the home international season against Zimbabwe.