The bottom of the table Central Hinds came close to pulling off a major upset over the Canterbury Magicians in Lincoln, a hard fought round five of the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield going down to the very last over.
The Central visitors had posted a good 226 for seven after being sent in by Canterbury captain Frances Mackay on a firm, but well grassed, deck, opposing captain Anlo van Deventer the only batsman to reach a half century for her side but surrounded by solid contributions.
Anlo van Deventer led the challenge. PHOTOSPORT
Opener Rebecca Burns showed good control, scoring a patient 40 alongside young Taranaki debutant Emily Cunningham at the top. Starts from Jess Watkin and Kerry Tomlinson were snuffed out to early but an unbeaten 40 from WHITE FERN Hannah Rowe at run-a-ball pace helped the Hinds get up.
For the Mags, the wickets were shared and they’d been made to work for them by the youthful side; but an 82-run opening stand by the dependable firm of Frankie Mackay and Amy Satterthwaite ensured the hosts got off to the solid start they needed in reply.
Satterthwaite in control. PHOTOSPORT
Class act Satterthwaite was on the cusp of a run-a-ball half century when she was bowled by Mikaela Greig, the first wicket falling in the 18th over and Mackay following her in during the next.
It was just the lift the Hinds had needed — until former WHITE FERN Kate Ebrahim came in and slaughtered a knock of 73 from first drop.
Hawke's Bay Rosemary Mair claimed a three-for. MButcher/CDCA
The Hinds were forced to attack and chip away at the other end, removing Emma Jones and Nat Cox cheaply before promising pace bowler Rose Mair (3-32) struck twice in the 47th over to have the Mags six down with 15 runs still to find.
Another wicket or two would have made things tricky for the Mags’ chase at the death, but with Ebrahim still there to close it out they got home by four wickets with three balls to spare.
