Guptill ton takes Auckland to thrilling win

Auckland prevailed over Canterbury in a thrilling high-scoring encounter at the Mainpower Oval in Rangiora, thanks to an unbeaten century from Martin Guptill, who smashed eight sixes in his 120. Guptill almost single-handedly guided his team during its chase of 184. Auckland lost two wickets inside the first three overs in the chase but Guptill kept the game on from one end.

Though Auckland lost wickets at regular intervals, the batsmen who followed chipped in long enough to support Guptill. Anaru Kitchen, Gareth Hopkins and Colin Munro gave Guptill company in important partnerships, and Ronnie Hira helped finish the game off. With 10 needed off the final over, Auckland managed nine off the first five balls. Hira swung the final delivery, Andrew Ellis, for six to seal victory.

Canterbury's score of 183 centered on three knocks, of 41, 45 and 42 from George Worker, captain Peter Fulton and Dean Brownlie respectively. They were 163 for 9 at one stage after a collapse where they lost 7 for 63, but No.11 Mitchell Claydon took them to 183.