Otago faced a tough challenge against Will Young and Tom Bruce, who led Central Districts to a seven-wicket victory at Molyneux Park in Alexandra. The Volts struggled early on, losing three wickets in the powerplay and failing to build a strong foundation against a quality bowling attack.
Llew Johnson’s aggressive knock of 53 helped Otago reach 154 for eight, but Young’s composed 50 and Bruce’s explosive 44 off 19 balls guided Central Districts to victory. Curtis Heaphy’s 43 and Blair Tickner’s three wickets were crucial contributions for the Stags.
Otago assistant coach Ben McCord praised the Stags’ bowling effort, especially highlighting Brett Randell and Tickner’s performances. Despite a challenging powerplay, McCord acknowledged Johnson’s talent and effort in getting Otago to a competitive total.
In the opening stages, Tickner made a significant impact, dismissing key Otago batsmen. Foxcroft and Carter tried to steady the innings with a 44-run partnership, but Johnson’s brilliance was required to push the total higher.
Johnson’s aggressive hitting, including back-to-back sixes off Tickner in the penultimate over, helped Otago post a challenging target. However, Central Districts’ strong batting display, led by Young and Bruce, secured the win for the Stags.
Men’s Super Smash
Otago
D Phillips b Tickner 4 (5)
J Todd c Clark b Schaw 5 (3)
M Chu c Schaw b Tickner 4 (8)
L Carter c Randell b Field 25 (27)
D Foxcroft c Randell b Lennox 25 (30)
L Johnson b Clark 53 (29)
R Clinton b Tickner 5 (5)
B Lockrose b Randell 15 (6)
A Hazeldine not out 7 (8)
Extras (lb 3, w 7, nb 1) 11
Total (for 8 wkts, 20 overs) 154
Central Districts
W Young c Phillips b Lockrose 50 (37)
J Boyle c Phillips b Clarke 2 (6)
C Heaphy c Phillips b Foxcroft 43 (42)
T Bruce not out 44 (19)
W Clark not out 10 (9)
Extras (lb 3, w 6) 9
Total (for 3 wkts, 18.5 overs) 158
Result: Central Districts won by seven wickets.
