Cricket: Lewis century brings win

An inspired and timely knock by New Zealand captain Maia Lewis helped Wellington to break their duck in the domestic women's championship.

Their 33-year-old captain led from the front with an unbeaten century as defending State League champions Auckland were humbled by nine wickets at Linden Park.

The win was crucial to Wellington's final ambitions after they had opened their campaign with back-to-back losses to Canterbury.

Lewis finished 100 not out off 116 balls as Wellington overhauled Auckland's total of 190 with 6.1 overs to spare.

She shared in a 173-run, second-wicket partnership with Losi Harford, who ended on 72 not out.

New Zealand medium pacer Amanda Green was the pick of the Wellington bowlers, finishing with four for 24. Helen Watson top-scored for Auckland with 65.

Wellington host Northern tomorrow and on Sunday.

- NZPA