10 Mar 2010 9:56 a.m.
Auckland skipper Gareth Hopkins is doing his best to solidify his position in the Black Caps squad, following another impressive performance in Hamilton yesterday.
Despite Hopkins' best efforts, the Black Caps sunk to a disappointing six wicket defeat.
The 33-year-old wicket-keeper scored 45 runs from 51 deliveries and formed a crucial sixth wicket partnership with Auckland teammate Scott Styris as New Zealand made 245 batting first. He also did an impessive job behind the stumps, effecting the run out of Shane Watson and stumping Brad Haddin.
Hopkins scored 35 from 39 at Eden Park on Saturday after being called into the team as an injury replacement for Jacob Oram and also smashed 36 from 17 in the second Twenty20 international in Christchurch.
His performances aren't lost on Black Caps skipper Dan Vettori.
"He continues to impress," Vettori said after last night's game.
"We want him to make the most of his opportunities with the bat, because that's so important for the balance of the team, but if he can continue to keep like that then he's a real valuable asset to the team."
Hopkins is likely to once again play a key role in the New Zealand line-up in tomorrow's fourth ODI at Eden Park.