A CRICKETING pro from New Zealand has had to cut short his time in Suffolk after being picked for a tour in Australia for up-and-coming talent.

A CRICKETING pro from New Zealand has had to cut short his time in Suffolk after being picked for a tour in Australia for up-and-coming talent.

Hamish Bennett, 21, who signed as Bury's professional this year has enjoyed his nine-week stint at the Victory ground.

In this time he has passed on his knowledge of the game to a variety of age groups and contributed to a successful first part of the season for Bury St Edmunds first XI.

He has enjoyed sponsorship from Cecil and Larter and would not rule out a return to the UK in the future.

The youngster, who plays for Canterbury Wizards 'back home', says the highlight of his career thus far was bowling out Kevin Pietersen when the New Zealand A-team took on England back in February 2008.

“I have enjoyed my time in Suffolk.

“I didn't get to travel about the county much because of cricketing commitments, so it would be nice to come back one day.”