Cricket: Switch to anchor role flip side to Ryder

ANCHORMAN: Jesse Ryder put away his explosiveness in yesterday's victory in Palmerston North. PHOTO/FILE

Like a jockey weaving a horse through the traffic, the Central Districts Stags are making a late run from behind in their Ford Trophy campaign.

The Devon Hotel-sponsored side came away with a 55-run victory over the Wellington Firebirds after the Duckworth-Lewis method kicked in at Fitzherbert Park, Palmerston North, yesterday.

Again, CD coach Heinrich Malan welcomed the William Young-captained Stags' top order providing a platform with George Worker (64 off 76 balls), Ben Smith (57/73) and Jesse Ryder (83/74) for a handsome 324-7.

But Malan was quick to point out he wanted any of his batsmen to go on to three figures.

"At the end of the day, in the changing rooms, we talked about our batters needing to get 100 for us."

He commended Ryder for his maturity in playing an anchor role as crucial partnerships came and went.

"He's an explosive player so he adapted his game and it's good because we always talk about this sort of scenario."

Had Tom Bruce or Dane Cleaver found rapport with Ryder the former Black Cap would have "cut loose earlier" to march towards his century.

Smith was batting well in the nets so it wasn't surprising to see the Whanganui opener carve up a half century.

Malan saluted test bowler Doug Bracewell and fellow opener Seth Rance for tight overs to keep the Firebirds stifled.

Lanky Blair Tickner also made an impression.

Defending champions CD play ND Knights on Wednesday after losing again to Otago Volts.

"They'll be coming hard at us," he said of the Cobham Oval match.