Central Districts 169 for 8 (Ingram 46, Shaw 5-59) v Auckland
Scorecard

A five-wicket haul from Lance Shaw ensured Auckland took opening-day honours against Central Districts in the final of the State Championship at the Bert Sutcliffe Oval. It was his second five-wicket haul in 23 first-class appearances, and led the Auckland bowling effort. Central Districts were left struggling at 169 for 8 when bad light brought an early end with 46 of the scheduled 100 overs bowled.

Put in by Auckland, Central Districts openers Peter Ingram and Jamie How batted in contrasting fashion during their 57-run stand in 15 overs. Ingram was aggressive, hitting eight boundaries in his 46 before Shaw picked up the first of his five scalps by getting him to edge to wicketkeeper Gareth Hopkins. He then removed George Worker for a second-ball duck while Colin de Grandhomme caught and bowled How for a 47-ball 9. Central Districts had lost three quick wickets in the space of eight balls and Auckland never let their grip slip.

Mathew Sinclair, the captain, and Brad Patton launched a rescue mission, adding 52 for the fourth wicket before de Grandhomme had Patton caught by Tarun Nethula for 18. Sinclair departed seven runs later, for 34, when Shaw sneaked one through his defences. The bowler went on to get Bevan Griggs caught behind for 8 and then trapped Ewen Thompson leg before for the second duck of the innings.

Brendon Diamanti did not last too long either, dismissed by Michael Bates for 10 before Jacob Oram (35) and Michael Mason (1) guided Central Districts to stumps.