Napier's McLean Park resembled Hawke's Bay Airport's tarmac runway yesterday, as both Central Districts and Canterbury piled on the runs during day two of their final Plunket Shield match.
Former Black Cap and CD wicket keeper Kruger van Wyk built from his strong platform by posting 111 not out after resuming the day's play on 44.
The diminutive player, known for his mental toughness, has been impressive in CD's last four first class matches, helping steer the team towards victory on multiple occasions.
Van Wyk's intelligent innings, which included only nine boundaries, found ample support from leg spinner Tarun Nethula who scored 81 before falling victim to fellow leggie Todd Astle.
Astle returned first class career best figures of 8-148 from 51.4 overs to keep his name in the hat for a Black Cap recall, as the team's premier spin bowling option on future tours.