Canterbury Cricket host final showpiece

With the State Canterbury Magicians finishing top qualifiers in the State League, Canterbury Cricket will host the series finale at Redwood Park on Saturday.

"We are delighted at the opportunity to host the match and provide a show piece for women's cricket in New Zealand," Canterbury Cricket's public relations officer Emily Travers commented.

The Canterbury Cricket women's selectors have announced an unchanged State Canterbury Magicians team to play the State League final against current titleholders the State Auckland Hearts.

"The team has been very focused on this game since our final position was confirmed, and is determined to put together a performance which will see the trophy return to Canterbury," State Canterbury Magicians coach Vicki Burtt said.

Up until 1999/00 the State Canterbury Magicians had been the champion domestic women's cricket side every year for a decade, before losing the title to Auckland. Auckland has held the title since this time, defeating the State Canterbury Magicians in the last three finals.

Burtt has no doubt in her team's ability to bring the State League trophy back to Canterbury. "We have a group of very talented individuals who have formed a strong team to get us to this final. We will not be taking the opportunity to win lightly."

The State Canterbury Magicians play the State Auckland Hearts on Saturday, February 22 at Redwood Park starting at 10.30am (reserve day Sunday, February 23). Admission is free.

The State Canterbury Magicians team to play the State Auckland Hearts is:

Haidee Tiffen (captain)
Nicola Payne (vice-captain)
Sarah Burke
Selena Charteris
Kirsty Craig
Helen Daly
Maria Fahey
Rowhan Kelly
Beth McNeill
Rowan Milburn
Hannah Rae
Rebecca Steele