Otago left-arm wrist spinner Michael Rippon received a courtesy call before the New Zealand team’s to tour Bangladesh and Pakistan were named earlier this year.
It was not the news he was hoping for but it was a clear signal he is very much in the frame.
‘‘I got told I was out of contention for the tours because obviously I’m not a resident,’’ he said.
‘‘Those tours were to red-zone countries and so there were limited MIQ spots and it was quite tough to get a border exemption.
‘‘It was nice to be told that you were in the mix.
‘‘Obviously, watching from home, it was quite tough, really.
‘‘The conditions there suited spinners. I’d love conditions like that.’’
South African-born Rippon came to Dunedin in January 2017 to provide spin cover for Otago.
He made a strong impression and returned the following season.
The former Dutch international declared his intention to qualify for New Zealand and took a step closer to realising his dreams of playing for the Black Caps last year when he was included in a national winter training squad.
Rippon plans to apply for New Zealand residency in March but he has been eligible to play for his adopted country since September.
The 30-year-old was arguably the best all-rounder in the Plunket Shield last season.
He scored 497 runs at an average of 45.18 and claimed 22 wickets at 34.86, including a match-winning six-wicket bag against Central Districts.
‘‘Hopefully, there is another subcontinent tour somewhere around the corner. Obviously, it was disappointing not being able to go but the positives are I know I’m on the radar and I’ve got communication from the selectors.’’
