Mixed results in first games of the New Year

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The Whanganui cricketers representing Central Districts continued their busy schedule of matches over the New Year weekend and weather permitting will keep busy with more interprovincial games for the next few days.

Both Anndion Lodge Wanganui players Michelle Mitchell and Jessica Watkin tasted success in a nail-biting six run win for the CD Hinds over the Otago Sparks in their Twenty20 clash at Alexandra's Molyneux Park on Saturday.

Batting first, Mitchell scored 23 from 25 balls with four boundaries, while Watkin hit 14 from 21 as part of a small 104-8 total.

However, the bowlers stuck to the task and defended the low total, restricting Otago to 98-9 from their overs.

Watkin was outstanding as she finished with 3-17 from her four overs, while also being involved in a key run out - one of three which broke down the Otago middle order.

The wet weather at New Plymouth's Pukekura Park yesterday prevented Whanganui's Ben Smith from showing his stuff as the Central District Stags' Ford Trophy clash with the Otago Volts was abandoned.

However, another former Active Physio Wanganui captain in Henry Collier stood out in Central Districts A's three wicket loss to Auckland A at Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Lincoln on Saturday.

Now playing his club cricket in Palmerston North, Collier was second highest scorer with 37 from 51 balls in CD A's 223 all out.

Auckland A reached 224-7 in the 41st over.

Collier's team were scheduled to face Northern Districts A yesterday, while Smith's Stags were hoping the weather clears up to face Otago again today.

The Hinds were also scheduled to face the Sparks in back-to-back 50-over matches.