Wanganui jolted early in decider

TAIL END: Wanganui lads James Russell (left) and Blair Pudney prepare for battle against Nelson after the lunch break on day one of the two-day final of the Central Districts Under-15 tournament in Levin yesterday. PHOTO/SUPPLIED

A great day with bat and ball against the tournament favourites propelled Wanganui into the final of the Central Districts Under-15 boys' final at Weraroa Domain in Levin.

After beating Taranaki and Horowhenua/Kapiti in the first two round robin matches earlier in the week, the Wanganui XI took on pre-post favourites Manawatu on Tuesday and convincingly beat the traditionally strong side to secure a place in the final against Nelson, the other unbeaten side of the eight teams competing.

Coach Hayden Pudney said a great knock of 92 from Cameron Mackintosh, combined with solid partnerships involving Raemon Teki, Blair Pudney and James Pennefather set Manawatu a target of 212 runs to chase from 110 overs.

Manawatu had little chance to settle into stride with a four-wicket plunder from Connor O'Leary.

"It was a handy target we set them and then Connor's excellent bowling made life difficult for Manawatu. He took four wickets for 32 runs off 12 overs - we bundled them out for 150 with 16 overs remaining," Pudney said yesterday.

"We had a great day with the bat, especially Cameron's 92. He was helped by good partnerships from the others. We go into the two-day final against Nelson this morning."

Pudney and the team had an added advantage with former Black Cap Mark Greatbatch as assistant coach for the tournament. Greatbatch's son Charlie is in the team.

With no WiFi available on the grounds in Levin, live scoring was unavailable on the crichq website and games were being played into the evening, past the Chronicle deadline.

However, Wanganui made a rocky start, scoring 120/6 at lunch, then lost three quick wickets after the break to be out for 135. Play continues today.