Cricket: Auckland battle back after slump

Wicketkeeper Brad Cachopa, above, and Robbie O'Donnell mounted another rescue operation. Photo / Brett Phibbs

Auckland had a mixed day at Dunedin's University Oval yesterday.

Having been sent in by Otago in their Plunket Shield clash, joint leaders Auckland will start today at 233 for eight, having spent 93 overs at the crease.

Jeet Raval and Anaru Kitchen put on 63 for the first wicket but five wickets then tumbled for only 11 runs.

Wicketkeeper Brad Cachopa and Robbie O'Donnell mounted another rescue operation, putting on 115 for the sixth wicket, Cachopa hitting 71 and O'Donnell grinding his way to 59.

Canterbury were sent in by Northern Districts in Christchurch, and reached 325 for seven by stumps.

Opener Leo Carter made 76, veteran Neal Broom hit 76 and Henry Nicholls made 57.

Central Districts have work to do at New Plymouth against Wellington, who established a 13-run lead on the first innings, thanks to Michael Papps' brisk 70 and 68 from Stephen Murdoch. CD were reduced to 50 for three at stumps.