Despite being swathed in covers for the past five days the Basin Reserve pitch is in good shape ahead of the second cricket test between New Zealand and South Africa says turf manager Hagen Faith.
Faith says over 70 millimetres of rain has fallen in Wellington since Friday and despite it affecting their preparations it hasn't set them back too much.
"The wicket has come through really well. There hasn't been any water running under the covers," he said.
The Basin Reserve pitch has been under cover for several days. Photo: Photosport
"Preparations obviously haven't been great but we knew what was coming ...and prepared accordingly."
Asked what type of wicket he expected Faith was coy.
"The best possible one...given the weather!"
"Hopefully there's a bit of grass...traditionally there's pace and bounce so there should be something there for the bowlers who are really trying to get something out of it," said Faith.
Jeetan Patel is in line for his first test at the Basin Reserve. Photo: Photosport
It will be the 60th test for the Basin Reserve but looms at Wellington veteran Jeetan Patel's first home test and Faith is optimistic it will suit the off spinner.
"Jeets has had great success with Wellington and if anyone can anything out of surely he can!"