ON THE UP GRADE

Evening Post, Volume CXIII, Issue 32, 8 February 1927, Page 10

ON THE UP GRADE

AUCKLAND CRICKET ■ • \

(By Telegraph.)

(Special to "The Evening Poet.")

AUCKLAND, This Day. Dealing editorially with, the AucklandMelbourne game to-day's "New Zealand Herald" states: "The result of the match between the local representatives and the Melbourne visitors may reasonably be cited, in conjunction with the Plunket Shield success, as proof that cricket in Auckland is on the up grade. The result, in spite of the. visitors' lead in the first innings, was a draw, distinctly in Auckland's favour. Softie allowance must be made for the waring of the wicket before the visitors had their second innings, but the fine performance of the Auckland bowlers, and the splendid support given to them in the field on the final, day were the factors mainly responsible for the creditable result.

"The visitors were left with two hours and a half in which to get 148 runs required for victory. A run a minute, not a fast rate of scoring, was all that was wanted. Their batting prowess appeared to disadvantage against the attack of Player and Matheson—a fact that is more encouraging as the visiting team includes several batsmen of Australian inter-State renown. Allcott's bowling on Saturday, in spite of the injury he had suffered, contributed greatly, to the result. It should be remembered also that, although Bowley was -the mainstay of Auckland's first innings, an unfortunate mishap to him on Saturday robbed the local side of his trusty services for the.rest of the match. All things considered, this game has materially strengthened the belief that given _ adequate playing fields and good coaching, Auckland cricket may reach and maintain a high level." •