Matt Horne has been named captain of the State Auckland Aces team to play in the State Max tournament at North Harbour Stadium this weekend.

He leads the side in the absence of State Auckland captain Brooke Walker from the Max team.

Auckland, last year's beaten Max finalists, play defending champions the State Wellington Firebirds at 2pm on Saturday, the winner of the game having automatic entry into Sunday afternoon's final.

Ten players with Max experience are in the side with Cornwall bowler Richard Morgan the outstanding performer for the side last year.

"The team are really looking forward to their first major challenge of the domestic season. After finishing runners up to the State Wellington Firebirds in successive seasons, there is a firm resolve to start the State Series on a winning note", selection convener Tony Sail said.

The team is: Matt Horne, Llorne Howell, Aaron Barnes, Andre Adams, Tama Canning, Kyle Mills, Tane Topia, Richard Morgan, Reece Young, Chris Drum, Rob Nicol, Terry Crabb.

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