CRICKET: Northland beat Counties Manukau

Northland scored 135-4 in their 27th over to beat Counties Manukau 134 in a cricket clash at Cobham Oval in Whangarei yesterday.

Michael Parlane 62 not out and Henry Cooper 46 not out were the big hitters for Northland.

Cooper also got 2-23 when he bowled 10 overs, and Cody Andrews took four wickets for 28 runs.

Tamati Clark was the best of the Counties Manukau batsmen, scoring in the 40s.

Northland coach Stephen Cunis was elated with the victory and bonus point.

"I'm absolutely rapt," he said as he headed for a celebratory drink soon after the match ended about 4.30pm.

"The boys used the conditions well. Their batting, fielding and bowling was outstanding."

Northland's next big game will be a one-day match against Hamilton at Hamilton on February 3.