Canterbury render Auckland disconsolate with six-run win

Central Districts (395 & 395) drew with Otago (624 & 100 for 4)

Otago could not dismiss Central quickly enough in their second innings at McLean Park, having to settle for first innings points in this high-scoring encounter. Some 230 behind on the first innings Central opener Geoff Barnett and in-form Bevan Griggs ensured there would be no wobbles, even compensating for the loss of first innings double-centurion Ross Taylor (3). Greg had continued his good start to his first-class career with 54 before he was run out. In the 13 overs that were available Otago smashed 100 for 4, Neil Broom lashing 63 off 36 balls. Ewen Thompson picked up three low-key wickets for 45.

Canterbury (251 & 200) beat Auckland (180 & 265) by 6 runs

Auckland came within a single blow of stunning Canterbury at Eden Park Outer Oval. A century stand by allrounders Tama Canning and Andre Adams set the home side up for almost certain victory before Craig McMillan pulled a rabbit from the hat, claiming two wickets, including Adams's, for four runs. Canning was left on 90 not out after outlasting Adams, whose attention-grabbing season continued with 65 from just 48 balls including eight fours and three sixes. They came together at 162 for 7 and when Adams fell to McMillan the score was 263. However, the No 10 and Jack both made ducks, leaving the Aucklanders disconsolate. Canterbury bowlers Sunnie Chan and Brandon Hiini took three wickets each.

Wellington (524 for & 37 for 0) beat Northern Districts (253 & 302) by 10 wickets
Mark Gillespie ensured Wellington would have enough time to secure a deserved a outright victory when he took 5 for 93 at Seddon Park in Hamilton. Needing to bat out the day to deny the visitors, Northern folded for 302, despite an excellent 128 from James Marshall and a stone-walling 74 not out from Mark Orchard. There was nothing else of note, however, and that allowed Jesse Ryder (26 not out off 16 balls) and Michael Parlane to get Wellington home in the fifth over of their second innings.