Novices get second crack at interprovincial title

The best of Wanganui's new bowlers will get another go at interprovincial success at the Men's and Women's Academy 5-year and under hexagonal this weekend.

A representative tournament designed for players with five years or less experience, Wanganui will be hosting teams from Hawke's Bay, Wellington, Kapiti Coast, Manawatu and Wellington bowling centres.

The previous men's hexagonal, for the Guscott Trophy was contested back in May with Taranaki winning the title for the second year in a row, having only started sending teams in 2012.

It was notable that a number of the teams brought players in their 20s and 30s and even some teenagers.

Wanganui finished fifth, and there have been a couple of alterations to the men's lineup.

The decision has also been made to bring the men's and women's tournaments to the same time of year from now on.

Men's games will again be played at the Wanganui Bowling Club, while the women will play at the Castlecliff Bowling Club.

Games start at 10am today at both greens and there will be three rounds. Tomorrow the games begin at 9am, with two rounds.

Wanganui teams

Men: Craig Bourne, Wayne Broughton, Phil Carey, Gary Johnston, Les Murcott, Mike Penn, Desmond Pirere, Tony Stockton, Jonno Wicky, Kevin Willis (c). Selector: Keith Schultz; Manager: Graeme Tauri.

Women: Judy Johnson (c), Wendy Black, Jill Rolhoff, Louise Rossiter-Wicky, Debbie Wildermoth, Chrissa Munroe, Hilary Huwyler, Janice Webster, Sue Willis, Thelma Ward.