IN FORM: Bharat Popli reached the 30s in both innings for Northern Knights against Auckland Aces at Mount Maunganui's Bay Oval. Photo: JOHN BORREN
There was somewhat of an anti-climax at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui on day two of the Plunket Shield match between the Sky City Northern Knights and the Auckland Aces.
After 23 wickets fell on the opening day, the players could only sit around through the first two sessions as they
waited for the weather to clear. Play started at 4.30pm with a minimum of 32 overs available .
The Knights resumed at 39/3 in their second turn at bat. Bay of Plenty master blaster Bharat Popli and Black Cap batsman Anton Devcich quickly went on the offensive to take the score through to 89, before Popli was bowled for 33. Devcich was dismissed for 54 with his replacement Tim Seifert lasting just three balls.
Bad light stopped play in the 40th over with the Northern Knights having reached 147/7, which gave them a 173 run lead entering day three of the four day match.
Sky City Northern Knights 124 & 147/7 (Anton Devcich 54, Bharat Popli 33; DJ Grobbelaar 3/24) Auckland Aces 98
Play begins at 10.30am tomorrow, with free entry.
