Fleming returns with a half-century

Otago 15 for 0 trail Northern Districts 229 (Mark Orchard 59, Jonathan Trott 4-35) by 214 runs
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Jonathan Trott took just a few overs to prove to Otago that their money was well spent as he helped his side make short work of the Northern Districts batting line-up at Harry Barker Reserve. Trott, a Warwickshire professional, took 4 for 35 after Craig Cumming, the Otago captain, won the toss and inserted the hosts. Only Nick Horsley (21) and Alun Evans (20) got starts before lunch as Northern went to the break at 63 for 5. Mark Orchard (59), Joseph Yovich (38) and Peter McGlashan (40) all chipped in before Northern Districts were dismissed for a disappointing 229. Otago negotiated a tricky period in fading light before play ended six overs early. Jordan Sheed (4*) and Craig Cumming (8*) batted Otago through to 15 for 0 at stumps.

Wellington 415 for 5 (Jesse Ryder 133*, Michael Parlane 120, Fleming 62) v Canterbury
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All eyes were on Stephen Fleming, the New Zealand captain, as he made his return after a facial surgery for Wellington against Canterbury at the Village Green in Christchurch. Wellington won the toss and overpowered the Canterbury attack to post 415 for 5 at more than four runs an over. Fleming had a tumour cut out of his jaw and was unavailable for New Zealand's first two Chappell-Hadlee Trophy matches against Australia. He scored a pleasant 62 as Wellington piled on the runs. Fleming was overshadowed by Jesse Ryder, who is being touted for a spot in the New Zealand one-day side before too long. He brought up his third first-class century in just 123 balls and ended up 133 not out. Michael Parlane did not miss out on the fun either, scoring 120 on a flat wicket. Nixon McLean, the West Indian fast bowler, was the best of the bowlers with 2 for 44.

Auckland 5 for 1 trail Central Districts 224 by 219 runs
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Jamie How, the Central Districts captain, might have been regretting his decision to bat first after winning the toss against Auckland on the first day of the State Championship season. Central managed an inadequate 224 all out on a wicket that held few demons. How (4), a New Zealand Test prospect, was first to go and there was a regular stream of wickets to follow. Mathew Sinclair got a start with 20 but couldn't capitalise. Jarrod Englefield (42) top scored on a rain-affected day. Tim Lythe, in his first-class debut, took 2 for 46 with his off-spinners. Lythe also found himself at the crease late in the day as nightwatchman as Auckland lost Richard Jones, their captain, to finish on 5 for 1.