Auckland have over-taken top of the table Otago with a massive seven wicket win against the Southerners in the Under 18 tournament at Lincoln.
Auckland only had to chase down a measly 117 and did so easily as they made the final runs after 33.3 overs.
Otago opted to bat first, but failed to get going at any point during their innings. Gregor Croudis (22) and Tim O’Malley (26) looked as if they might create a partnership, but failed to convert and weren’t backed up by any of their fellow batsmen.
24 extras from Auckland was the second top score and helped to get Otago to 117 all out after 32.4 overs.
Shaun Hicks was prolific with the ball as he collected a five wicket bag which included a rare hat-trick. He finished with figures of five for 24 from eight overs.
In reply Otago really dug deep and made it hard for Auckland to score. Not surprisingly though it didn’t turn out to be enough as Auckland were lead to victory by Sachin Variath who finished unbeaten on 53.
It was a resounding win by Auckland who finished with seven wickets in hand and 16.3 overs to spare.
