Elderkin – Big bench hampering us

Durham coach Dave Elderkin believes the Wildcats’ strength in depth on their bench has been a slight hinderance at the start of this season.

The Wildcats have managed just one win so far, but used all 12 of their players in the defeat to Glasgow at the weekend. In contrast, the Rocks used just six.

Elderkin said: “We used all 12 players on Saturday and Rocks only played six against us. That’s not a criticism, but it seems that a lot of BBL sides are running a short bench and it’s almost giving them an advantage as they’re gelling quicker.

“My guys deserve a shot at it because I’m getting 16 players at practice, which is a luxury I’ve never had, but maybe I now need to look at the minutes situation and work out who gives us the best shot at getting a W.”

After their trip to Mersey Tigers on Friday, the Wildcats host Plymouth Raiders, who have already beaten the Wildcats 88-74 in the BBL Cup this season.