Delighted Hawke's Bay under-15 cricket coach Dale Smidt says a number of his players should push hard for Central Districts selection this summer.
Speaking after the successful staging of Labour Weekend's interdistrict tournament at Frimley Park, Smidt said the results from the six-team event showed that his players were ready to
push for provincial selection.
After a first-up loss to Auckland on Saturday, Hawke's Bay chased down a challenging total of 159 to beat North Harbour Burgundy by six wickets. Sam Flack with 57 not out and Bronson Meehan (51) led the chase after Steven Smidt had taken three for 14 from his 10 overs.
In the 35-over game on the Monday, 44 from Josh Rurawhe saw Hawke's Bay sneak past North Harbour Black's total of 104 for nine, with just three balls to spare.
"That's the third year we've played North Harbour and the first time we've beaten them, so I'm chuffed," said Smidt.
"I haven't pushed the kids' cases too hard for Central Districts in the past but I certainly will be this year."
Smidt singled out two players for their performances - batsman Meehan, who scored 91 runs in three innings, and his son, Steven, who took five for 50 from his 26 overs.
