CRICKET RECORD

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXVII, Issue 20140, 9 January 1940, Page 9

CRICKET RECORD

PLUNKET SHIELD PLAY AUCKLAND 9 FOR 693 SCOTT OUT AT 198 INNINGS DECLARED (Per Press Association.) AUCKLAND, this day. An hour’s play in the Plunket Shield cricket match, Auckland v. Canterbury, saw the Auckland total increased to COO at Eden Park. The not out batsmen, Scott and Blanford. were kept quiet by half a dozen overs from the opening pair, Mcßae and Donnelly, but then got the upper hand. A change in the attack to Anderson and Cromb saw runs coming quicker. Scott, after reaching his 150, soon ran within range of his double century, while his partner had reached the twenties. The wicket was playing easily and neither batsmen had given any chances. However, Scott had a life when he was dropped by the keeper off Cromb immediately after he had driven a boundary. Mcßae then went on at the other end in place of Anderson. At this stage the total was 613 Scott being 178 and Blandford 23. Auckland now looked sure to establish another Plunket Shield record, the previous best being their total of 643 against Canterbury at the new year. 1920.

Scott reached 191 when he cleverly turned Andersen off his legs to the boundary and repealed the stroke for a brace. A strong forward drive to the off-boundary followed, and then Davis took the ball from Anderson. Three singles were scored and a new record was made, while Scott had 'a chance to make his first 200 in his shield career, but played the next ball back to Davis, who held a good onehanded catch just before it hit the pitch. The total was 646, Scott being now 198 and Blandford being not out 36. Cleverley, the next batsman, immediately survived a chance of a catch which went from the wicketkeeper to first slip, both dropping the ball. Cleverley was in difficulties facing Donnelly. After a period of defensive play Blandford reached the half century, pulling Donnelly to the fence twice.

With the total at 683, Cleverley was caught in the slips by Mcßae. Cowie was last man in, five Routes before the luncheon adjournment. He stayed there until the bell, and the Auckland innings was declared at -693.