The Canterbury 2nd XI have raced to the top of the table after completing a comprehensive outright victory against Central Districts, following up their earlier outright victory over Otago.

The match against Central Districts was played in Masterton over New Year, at Queen Elizabeth Park. Canterbury won the toss and batted first, scoring 250. The top performers for Canterbury were Marcel McKenzie 85 and Darron Reekers 64, whose inning included six sixes.

Central Districts were then bowled out for 203, Reekers being the main destroyer with 5 wickets, with support from Ryan Burson and Simon Grainger. Canterbury's 2nd innings was a quick fire effort, leaving Central 270 to win. McKenzie (50), Reekers (47) and Peter Fulton (48) batted well for Canterbury.

Central started the chase well and required 165 off 45 overs, with all 10 wickets remaining when James Ward came into the attack. On a turning pitch Ward bowled an exquisite spell of left arm spin, capturing an impressive 8-42 and with support from Hamish Barton (2 wickets), Canterbury bowled their opposition out for 170, taking all 10 wickets in one session.

The team has now moved onto Wellington, where they have now completed day one of a three day game. After being sent in by Wellington, Canterbury ended the day at 285/6. Peter Fulton continued his excellent form, scoring 117, while McKenzie scored 41. The not out batsmen overnight were Brendon Donkers on 17 and Ryan Burson yet to score.

From here, the team goes on to play Northern Districts and Auckland in one day games.

Score summary from the Central Districts Game:
Canterbury 250 all out (H Barton 15, M McKenzie 85, D Reekers 64, P Fulton 22, D Bulman 26)
Central Districts 203 all out (D Reekers 5-39, S Grainger 2-34)
Canterbury 226/7 dec (H Barton 20, M McKenzie 50, C Cornelius 25, P Fulton 48, D Reekers 47, D Bulman 14*)
Central Districts 170 all out (J Ward 8-42, H Barton 2-25)

© Canterbury Cricket Association