Otago finished convincing victors over Wellington in their 50 over match to make things very tight at the top of the Under-18 points table.
Otago put 237 on the board in the first innings, a total which Wellington would not threaten at any stage.
Wellington opted to bowl first and had success early on with two quick wickets. Captain Gregor Croudis though once again proved to be valuable for Otago as he made 55 from 92 balls.
His partner and top scorer was Tim O’Malley who anchored Otago’s innings with a well-made 68. Hamish O’Brien also did well in the middle-order with 26 to help Otago reach 237 for eight at the end of 50 overs.
Henry Walsh was the best of the bowlers for Wellington and ended with figures of three for 52 from ten overs.
It seemed a chase able total, but the start that Wellington got off to ended that possibility quickly.
Wellington capitulated to 23 for five and looked like they might struggle to reach 50 at one stage.
Thankfully it wasn’t that bad for the boys from the capital, but they still couldn’t save the game, eventually all out for 101 after 35.4 overs.
The bowling from Otago was brilliant with three of the bowlers (Duffy, Hunter and Rae) picking up three cheap wickets each.
The boys from down south now have a real shot at the trophy.
