Cricket: Fortunes sway in Christchurch

Warren Wisneski's competitive streak ensured Canterbury retained the initiative on the second day of their Shell Trophy match against Auckland in Christchurch yesterday.

But not everything went to Canterbury's plan.

Resuming at 301 for three, Canterbury fell short of their own expectations when they were dismissed for 477 just before the tea break.

In response, Auckland were 112 for three at stumps.

After Canterbury lost three batsmen in quick succession, and their seventh wicket at 367, they needed a change of tactics and target.

With the considerable assistance of wicketkeeper Gareth Hopkins, Wisneski ensured they could lift their sights again.

Together they battled nearly two hours for 73 runs against a resilient, four-pronged Auckland seam attack which maintained an admirable line and length in blustery conditions.

Wisneski's progress mirrored the situation. Although naturally aggressive, his first 10 scoring shots were singles.

Gradually, the balance tilted back to the home team and Wisneski included several fierce pulls in punctuating his other 48 runs with nine boundaries.

Hopkins fell two runs short of his half-century when an attempted hook carried only to substitute Aaron Barnes at square leg.

That Canterbury's hopes of reaching about 550 were not realised was much to the credit of Chris Drum, Richard Morgan, Tama Canning and Andre Adams.

Drum mixed aggression and accuracy, removing Michael Papps and Robbie Frew in quick succession, yet permitting only 65 runs from the 36 overs he delivered over five sessions.

But Auckland had given themselves a self-imposed handicap by not including a specialist spinner.

Lou Vincent, who kept wicket in the previous round and is primarily a batsman, was pressed into service with predictable results.

Captain Blair Pocock, another of military medium pace, had been the fifth bowler until he damaged a hamstring on Wednesday.

John Aiken filled Pocock's opening role, but lasted only until he was deceived by the last ball of Wisneski's first over.

Richard King and Dion Nash were also bowled by Wisneski.

- NZPA