Cricket: Northern Districts post big lead

HERALD ONLINE STAFF

Northern Districts amassed 367 in their second innings today, giving them an overall lead of 451 runs over Auckland in the Shell Trophy final at Taupo.

Heading into the final day tomorrow, Auckland faces the huge task of scoring 452 runs in one day to win the match and lift the trophy.

As second qualifiers for the final, they must win the match outright.

It was the closest the match came to a full day's play, already over five hours of play have been lost due to poor light and bad weather.

Umpires pulled the stumps after the Northern Districts innings finished in failing light shortly after 5:00 pm.

Northern made the most of the conditions today, top-scorer Joseph Yovich holding up the innings throughout the day. He was the last ND wicket to fall, finishing on 99 - one short of his maiden first-class century.

Along the way he received good support from Scott Styris (46) and Robbie Hart (29).

Auckland bowler Brooke Walker finished with his side's best figures of 4 wickets for 95 from 50 overs.

Northern made 292 in their first innings, and bowled Auckland out for 208 to give them a first innings lead of 84-runs.

If Northern Districts win it will be the first time in 7 years they have lifted the Shell Trophy.