Cricket: How stakes claim for place against Sri Lanka

Central Districts' Jamie How put his name into the mix for an opening spot in New Zealand's upcoming series against Sri Lanka with a sparkling century against Otago in Queenstown.

The century took Central to 291 and a first-innings lead over Otago's 193 on the second day of the four-day match.

At stumps, Otago were 90 for two.

Continuing from 63 overnight, How struggled to get the pace of the pitch initially and some tight bowling from Warren McSkimming and Jeff Wilson restricted progress.

The first hour produced only 36 runs, with Central captain Glen Sulzberger losing his wicket to a gem of a delivery from Wilson.

The morning could have been even brighter for Otago had Wilson not been denied two confident leg-before appeals.

The arrival of Aaron Redmond at the bowling crease brought a change in attitude from How, who immediately hoisted him back over his head for six, moving into the 90s.

How didn't linger there, moving on to his century in the next Redmond over.

"I'd like to say I wasn't nervous, but there are always a few nerves when you are in the 90s," How said.

"You just have to focus on the ball and try your best not to think about it."

How dismissed any talk of further honours and said he would just like to continue on with good early-season form.

His 105 was his fourth first class century.

He was eventually well caught in the gully from a wide Wilson delivery.