Wellington's defence of the Shell Super Max League trophy will be in the hands of discarded New Zealand opener Matthew Bell.

He was named captain of the State Wellington side after the final trial played yesterday.

The unavailability of Jason Wells, due to work commitments, meant Bell was the obvious choice for the role.

Bell, who toured England and India with New Zealand last year, has not been required by the national selectors since.

The only newcomer to the Wellington region from last season is wicketkeeper Glynn Howell who has his chance in the absence of Black Caps team member Chris Nevin in South Africa.

The Wellington team is: Matthew Bell (captain), Grant Donaldson, Scott Golder, Richard Petrie, Shane Battock, James Franklin, Carl Bulfin, Regan West, Mayu Pasupati, Paul Hitchcock, Glynn Howell, Matthew Walker.

Unavailable for selection were Robert Kennedy, who has a shoulder tendon injury, Andrew Penn and Wells.

In yesterday's trial, Bell's XI scored 117-5. Scott Golder followed up his 60 in an earlier trial with 71 not out. Regan West scored 35 while Paul Hitchcock took 2-21.

Jason Wells' XI responded with 78-6 of which Carl Bulfin hit 20. Mark Jefferson took 2-14.

Bell's XI then scored 87-2 with Battock scoring 33 and Robbie Bird 30.

Chasing 124 to win in the last innings, Wells' XI scored 117-5 with Paul Hitchcock scoring 43. Bell's XI won by six runs.

© CricInfo