Cricket: Auckland pair in record stand

The in-form Matt Horne led the run-fest as Auckland ensured Otago would face a demanding last innings run chase in their match at Carisbrook today.

Horne (127) and left-handed opening partner Tim McIntosh, unbeaten on 113, set an Auckland record against Otago with their stand of 240 in 217 minutes.

Auckland were 275 for one at stumps, after Otago had declared one run ahead earlier in the day, and the prospect is for an intriguing finale on a benign pitch.

Horne, in imperious form, scored his 21st century and his third in consecutive matches as he took his season's aggregate to 485 (average 121.25).

He was in total command, sweeping leg-spinner Rob Smith for four to reach his century. He was finally out when caught on the mid-wicket boundary off part-time bowler Chris Gaffaney.

McIntosh's third first-class century included 12 fours and two sixes. He drove with magnificent timing and placement, particularly after he reached 50, and twice hit Smith either into or over the main stand at mid-wicket.

Horne and McIntosh beat the previous best Auckland opening stand against Otago, 169 by Austin Parsons and Jim Riley in 1976-77, and threatened the all-time Auckland record of 286 set by Bert Sutcliffe and Don Taylor against Canterbury in 1948-49.

Horne, all elegance and timing, was at ease throughout as he continued to press his case for a test recall.

"It's a very flat wicket now, you have to make the most of it, and that's all I did," Horne said.

"We wanted to build a platform so we could launch again tomorrow and look at setting a target."

Horne is pleased he has found a rhythm in his batting and is not looking too far into the future.

"I'm just looking to build on what I've been doing in the next few games. There's a lot of cricket to be played and I'm just enjoying it."

Horne said speculation about a test recall was "out of my control."

"Who knows what's around the corner?"

Horne praised McIntosh, 22, who played with maturity and poise after an indifferent start to the season.

"Tim played really well and it's a great confidence-booster for him."

Horne said there was the prospect of an exciting finish to the State Championship match today. "Otago's got a lot of stroke-makers and some of our bowlers have a lot of work to do after the first innings. We didn't quite get it right."

Otago coach Glenn Turner said it was always their intention to declare after they gained first innings points.

- NZPA