Katey Martin made State League finalists and holders State Canterbury Magicians endure a nervy finish to their regular season campaign.
Martin hit 74 as State Otago Sparks looked to end their season on a high with victory over their neighbours at Alexandra’s Molyneux Park.
Canterbury hung on for a 20-run victory, but only after surviving a revival inspired by Martin.
Martin was last bat out, but had by then added 36 for the ninth-wicket with Shannon King as the tail wagged to frighten the Magicians.
Player-coach Claire Taylor scored 33, while Beth McNeil took three wickets for Canterbury.
Earlier, the visitors had set 198 from their 50 overs for the loss of seven wickets.
Maria Fahey hit 70 off 72 deliveries, helping her side recover from a precarious 53 for four to set up a defendable total.
