Two newcomers, Andrew Ellis and Brendon Donkers could make their first-class debuts when Canterbury travel to Dunedin to play Otago in their State Championship match starting on Friday.

The pair have been included in the 12 named for the match after fast-medium bowler Wade Cornelius was ruled out due to a minor side strain while medium-fast bowler Warren Wisneski's wife is expecting their second child.

Their absence will not greatly diminish the strength of the Canterbury side which will include six New Zealand Cricket-contracted players, Nathan Astle, Chris Martin, Craig McMillan, Shane Bond, Chris Harris and Chris Cairns.

Selection convener Craig Thiele was not surprisingly enthusiastic about the side's chances.

"The experience and maturity of the side will provide a real competitive advantage," he said.

The full team is: Gary Stead (captain), Nathan Astle, Shane Bond, Chris Cairns, Brendon Donkers, Andrew Ellis, Chris Harris, Gareth Hopkins, Chris Martin, Craig McMillan, Michael Papps, Paul Wiseman.

© CricInfo