Central Districts falters against steady attack

Press, 30 December 1988, Page 20

Central Districts falters against steady attack

Nelson Canterbury’s bowlers compounded Central Districts’ frustrations on the opening day of their national second XI representative cricket match at Motueka’s Memorial Park yesterday. Heavy morning rain ensured a late start to the match — the entire first session of play was lost before the players eventually took the field at 2.30 p.m.

Then the Canterbury bowlers struck quickly to take a tight grip which they barely relinquished throughout the day. When play finally ended after the regulation 80 overs had been bowled,

Central was uncomfortably placed at 160 for nine with two days play remaining. After losing the toss and being sent in, Central’s problems began immediately with opening batsman, Craig Ingham, being trapped lbw by Mark Robinson from the third ball of the innings. The Northamptonshire professional relied on his early pace to unsettle the Central batsmen although the wicket held no major fears for them.

Easily-paced and with a consistent low bounce, the wicket required concentration and application, eventually provided by determined innings from Barry Lyver, the captain

Warwick Bowden and Greg Collinge.

It was Canterbury’s bowlers who deserved most of the accolades with Robinson and the left arm seamer, Gary Chamberlain, each capturing four wickets. The performance of Ken Julian commanded much respect. His 18 overs of tight unrewarded off-spin cost 17 runs. Julian bowled 11 maidens. Central produced an unconvincing batting display.

Scores: Central Districts B 160/ 9 (B. Lyver 22, W. Bowden 34, G. Collinge 23, extras 33; M. Robinson 4/ 42, G. Chamberlain 4/49.