Scrappy Wellington struggle against CD

James Franklin's dismissal of Jamie How just before stumps gave Wellington an impetus to overcome an inconsistent batting display against Central Districts on day one at the Basin Reserve. Michael Parlane, Jesse Ryder and Franklin each hit 60s, but the inability of the other batsmen to come good against a good fast bowling attack left the hosts with a substandard first-innings total of 296.

Michael Mason, the fast bowler with national experience, and Lance Hamilton put pressure on Wellington's top order while Ewen Thompson seized four wickets. Mason and Hamilton were economical, but Hamilton - even though he went for 77 from just shy of 12 overs - damaged the middle order and effected a swift sweep of the tail. Parlane and Ryder fought well to resist, but failed to turn their half-centuries into hundreds, while Franklin's composed 64 proved a bonus in the middle order. He then removed How, caught by Jeetan Patel, to leave CD on 42 for 1 after 10 overs.