[Raynman]

I'm pretty sure, by Associate, Law was referring to the playing status of the Top associate nations IRE, AFG, SCO, NED, KEN and CAN.

Of those teams, KEN, IRE, NED have full ODI status also and we all know that the gap between us and those countries are way less than the gap that exists between us and the top 6 or 7 seven full member nations. Meaning, that IRE is likely to win more games out of 10 matches vs. us than we are like to win in 10 matches against PAK.

We should take test matches against the big guns when they become available and shoot for more tests with WI/ZIM and maybe NZ (they maybe on the upswing now).

But when thats not an option, playing a FC series against IRE, NED will not be diminishing to us. We don't have to play a full strength squad, only those players that are out of form. Playing those teams takes away the excuse of blaming the poor form/technique on opposition talent and also strengthens the case to be dropped if unable to perform. It gives valuable match situtaion practice which can not be gained in the nets.