Michael Papps

Papps came to the New Zealand side to solve the problem of a prolific top-order batsman which was brought about after Nathan Astle's knee injury.

Date of Birth: July 2, 1979, Christchurch, Canterbury  Test Debut: Against South Africa at Hamilton in 2003/04  ODI Debut: Against South Africa at Auckland in 2003/04  Bats: Right Hand Bat  Other: Wicket-Keeper

Papps came to the New Zealand side to solve the problem of a prolific top-order batsman which was brought about after Nathan Astle's knee injury.

He made his debut against South Africa in the recent home series and proved himself to be a capable opening batsman to partner Stephen Fleming.

He made 59 in his debut appearance but only managed 27 more runs in his other five innings in the series.

Apart from his batting skills he can also be used as a wicket-keeper which rakes up his qualities. Papps impresses with his ability to manipulate the bowlers, and initially included in the national team on the basis of his domestic form in the 2003-04.