The Northern Knights head up State Highway One to take on the Auckland Aces, in round four of the Plunket Shield starting on Thursday. The Knights have been based in Hamilton this week.

The table topping Knights will be playing at the temporary home of Auckland Cricket, Colin Maiden Park.

Once again a big decision for the Knights will be who to leave out of the starting eleven. Graeme Aldridge and Trent Boult return from being rested but there is a slight injury concern over Bradley Scott.

Experienced left arm spinner, Bruce Martin returns to the squad after playing for the Classic Hits 98.6 ZHFM NDA team last week. Anton Devcich has been left out of the side.

The Northern Knights side to defend their one day crown, starting in Auckland on Tuesday, will be named on Monday morning.

James Marshall (Captain) Northland

Graeme Aldridge Bay of Plenty

Brent Arnel Hamilton

Trent Boult Bay of Plenty

Peter McGlashan Counties Manukau

Bruce Martin Hamilton

Michael Parlane Northland

Bradley Scott Hamilton

Tim Southee Northland

BJ Watling Hamilton

Kane Williamson Bay of Plenty

Brad Wilson Northland

Joseph Yovich Northland