Cricket: Odd duo lead fightback

New Zealand's domestic batting giant teamed with a rock-solid Indian opener to lead Central Districts' response on the second day of a State Championship match against Wellington yesterday.

Central captain Mathew Sinclair and Indian guest Murali Vijay - warming up for next week's test against New Zealand - helped their side reach 156 for two by stumps at McLean Park in Napier.

They still trail by 254 runs after veteran Wellington wicketkeeper Chris Nevin compiled his fourth first-class hundred before his side were dismissed for 410.

Wellington's inserted Indian, seam bowler Dhawal Kulkarni, wasn't as effective as his compatriot, ending the day with none for 27 off seven overs, including six no-balls.

New Zealand batsman Daniel Flynn warmed up in style for the three-test series against India with a well-paced century for Northern Districts against Canterbury in Christchurch yesterday.

The stylish lefthander made 104, combining with Brad Wilson for a 209-run second wicket partnership.

Northern took first innings points emphatically, all out for 383 to hold a useful 137-run lead after Canterbury were bundled out for 246.

The lead looked even more handy as Canterbury again struggled with the bat in their second innings to be eight for two at stumps.

Flynn, whose 104 came off 154 balls and included 11 fours and two sixes, showed no signs of the groin strain which restricted him last month.

Otago can do little more than survive in Queenstown after Auckland piled on the runs yesterday.

By stumps on day two, Auckland had a 218-run first innings lead with five wickets in hand.

They batted all day to reach 418 for five, against Otago's inadequate 210.

Centuries to captain Richard Jones and Anaru Kitchen set the foundation for the visitors.

There was also the comforting sight of New Zealand opener Tim McIntosh cruising to 74. McIntosh and Jones put on 169 for the opening wicket.

Jones made 102 for his 14th first-class century. Kitchen raced to 125 off 155 balls in just his second first-class match.

- NZPA