Cricket followers in this country will be spoiled for choice next season, with test and one-day series against India and South Africa.

The programme starts on November 3 and ends on March 30 when South Africa completes its tour with the last of its six one-day internationals.

New Zealand will play three tests each against India and South Africa, and a total of 11 one-day internationals against those two countries.

As well, other international teams from Pakistan, Australia, South Africa, and England will visit for an assortment of women's and under-19 fixtures.

Pakistan A is to compete in the Conference series, against Northern, Southern, and Central regional combinations, which will feature only four-day games next season.

For Canterbury, the bid to retain the Shell Trophy starts in Rangiora on February 11, against Central Districts.

It plays Wellington in the capital from February 18-21, Auckland at home - most likely at QEII - from February 27 to March 2, Otago in Timaru from March 5-8, and Northern Districts in Hamilton from March 12-15. The final is from March 19-23.

New Zealand representatives will be available for the Conference games, from November 3 to December 1, which will be played solely at venues in the Canterbury region.