Sitting on 115 runs off 132 deliveries, Watling went in search of more runs to add to his impressive total.
It was at this point that disaster struck.
Read more: As it happened - Black Caps win in convincing fashion
Trying desperately to reach the crease after sending the ball leg side, Watling's hamstring cramped up, resulting in him tripping over his own right ankle.
As he was left stranded in the middle of the pitch, Wellington's Hamish Marshall threw the ball at the wickets, sending Watling from the middle of the park.
Fortunately for Watling, his 115 runs was a significant contribution to Northern District's five wicket victory, as Wellington's total of 263 runs was chased down with just one ball to spare.
Watling's Northern Districts are back in action in Whangarei on Wednesday when they host the Central Stags in their second Ford Trophy match of the season, while the Black Caps' second test against the West Indies begins on Saturday at Seddon Park in Hamilton.