Cricket: Auckland take charge against Otago

Jeet Raval was dismissed in the opening over of the match. Photo / Getty

Auckland made up for lost time to take a decent grip on their Plunket Shield match against Otago at University Oval in Dunedin today.

Having lost the first day to rain, Auckland made 255 after being sent in.

They were in difficulties at 48 for four, losing opener Jeet Raval in the first over of the match. But promising batsman Robbie O'Donnell reached 1000 first-class runs when he got to 87 - then was promptly out without adding any further.

In reply, Otago slumped to 116 for five, of which opener Ryan Duffy has been the major contributor and starts tomorrow on 62.

The Otago wickets were shared about, Lockie Ferguson having the best figures, with two for 26 off 10 overs.

Today it was chasers Canterbury's turn to sit out a day as rain washed out any play against Wellington, who sit at 101 for eight.

Northern Districts are in charge of their clash with Central Districts in Hamilton. Having pressed on from their overnight 330 for four, ND declared at 458 for six, with in-form Bharat Popli moving his century to 172.

There useful contributions of 55 from Daryl Mitchell and a rapid unbeaten 45 from Tim Seifert. CD has reached 269 for nine at stumps.

They suffered a steady fall of wickets with Mitch Renwick the only batsman to pass 50. His 69 was his second first-class half century, and second in three innings. Will Young, Tom Bruce and Doug Bracewell all made thirties.

Left arm spinner Anton Devcich has taken three for 38 while Mitchell and James Baker have taken two apiece.

CD start the third day 189 runs behind and likely facing a stiff fourth innings challenge.