Cricket: Watson's debut fails to fire

It would be fair to say that Northland's most recent New Zealand under-19 cricket representative's start to top age-grade cricket did not go as well hoped.

Maungakaramea cricketer Kurtley Watson had limited influence in his side's three-wicket loss to Australia's under-19 side in Lincoln across three days.

Watson, who has been selected for New Zealand primarily as a bowler, chipped in with three runs as his side posted 385 in their first innings.

Australia replied with a dominant 420 for four before declaring, with Watson proving expensive with the ball with figures of none for 40 from six overs including two maidens.

Interestingly, New Zealand shared the bowling around the team with a total of nine bowlers being used.

With coaches able to substitute players in and out, Watson did not play a role with the bat in New Zealand's second innings.

Although Australia were set 206 for victory with 66 overs left on the third day, the chase looked to be straight forward.

However, their pursuit was far from smooth sailing, losing three of their top-order early on to be 38 for three.

It took an unbeaten eighth wicket partnership worth 32 to thwart New Zealand's hopes.

Watson was not required much with the ball in the final innings, only being allowed one over as again nine bowlers were used.

The series now turns to the one-dayers, with the first of three 50-over matches beginning April 4 at the Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Lincoln.