RISHTON professional James Franklin was today basking in praise from England skipper Michael Vaughan after the New Zealander claimed a career best 5-42 as the Black Caps beat the hosts by seven wickets at Chester-Le-Street in the NatWest series.
It was a maiden five-wicket haul for left-arm seamer Franklin, who was plucked from the Lancashire League to play for the Kiwis in the third Test defeat at Trent Bridge earlier this month.
The Black Caps rewarded the 23-year-old by retaining him for the one-day series and he repaid their faith by helping secure a win that gives New Zealand the lead in the three team tournament.
England skipper Michael Vaughan, whose side seek their first win in the competition in a day-nighter at Headingley tomorrow, said: "You have to give Franklin a lot of credit for the way he swung the ball."
A modest Franklin said: "I thought there were a few loose ones - but when it is your day it is your day."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article