This week's test match against South Africa is a pretty big deal for the Black Caps summer.
We have started our test season fairly well and, while we know South Africa is going to be a mighty challenge to overcome, we at least have recent success to be able to fall back on as a confidence-booster.
The South African team has been very impressive so far on this tour, and will obviously present us with a stern test.
However, with older hands in Vettori and Martin back for the test series, and Ross Taylor recovered from his injury sustained during his last test innings - a 100-odd v Zimbabwe - there is cause for optimism and renewed enthusiasm.
The pitch looks like it will be a good one and, if the weather plays its part, should offer the batters opportunities to make big first-innings runs.
I would expect with it being drier than most here, it may be tough going for the batters as the test wears on, as it can slow up and even play a bit up and down towards the end of five days.
So that says to me that if you get a start in the first innings, it is imperative our top order goes big and make them in the more favourable conditions.
Hopefully, we get big crowds over the test match, as it's always better from a player's perspective playing in front of packed grounds, especially when it's your home ground!With the Highlanders starting the competition so well and also having a game against the Waratahs at the stadium on Saturday night, it promises to be a huge week for sports lovers from down here.
Here's to a couple of results in the affirmative for both the Highlanders and the Black Caps, both of which will need to be earned via hard work and plenty of courage.
- Brendon McCullum
