Murphy in line for first-class debut
David Murphy could be thrust into action today due to Northamptonshire's wicketkeeper shortage.
Niall O'Brien is currently performing well in a successful Ireland side at the ICC World Twenty20 and is unavailable for the visit of Surrey.
And the County's preparations have now been hampered by Riki Wessels – O'Brien's understudy as gloveman – suffering from gastric flu.
It leaves Murphy – who is on a summer contract – in line to make his first-class debut for the return to LV County Championship action against Mark Ramprakash, Mark Butcher, Andre Nel and co.
It would mean a rapid rise for the 19-year-old who is currently in his first year of studies at Loughborough University.
But he received an early vote of confidence from County coach David Capel.
"He wouldn't be on the staff if we didn't think he could do a job and had potential," he said.
"He has done a few things in league cricket and with the Second XI and, if he gets his chance, it's another cracking opportunity for one of our younger cricketers to make an impact in the first-class game.
"It is a big step up. But he will get the full support of the senior players.
"Niall is obviously unavailable to us because he's doing well with Ireland.
"Now Riki has been suffering with illness and has had some tests at the hospital.
"We'll wait and see if he is okay to play but it is not the best preparation for him."
One person who might also miss out is Monty Panesar.
The England spinner may be a victim of the recent wet weather if the wicket looks like it will favour seem.
Capel added: "It would be really disappointing if we had to leave Monty out because he's back to bowling like the player we know and love.
"We'll look at the conditions and the weather and assess the situation.
"If the game is rain-affected, spin will play less of a part and we'll need all our strength in the seam department and the batting.
"Nicky Boje will be back to captain the side and he would be capable of providing the spin we need. It will be a case of wait and see."
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Weather for Kettering
Sunday 27 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 10 C to 25 C
Wind Speed: 15 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Light showers
Temperature: 12 C to 26 C
Wind Speed: 8 mph
Wind direction: North east
