Aces could be up for run chase on final day
Friday, 12 November 2010
Daryl Tuffey hit 35 in the Aces 1st innings
Their is still the possibility of an intriguing last day in the Aces first round Plunket Shield against the Canterbury Wizards in Christchurch.
The Canterbury Wizards hold the upper hand entering day four with a 277-run lead, after easing to 131 for three in their second innings, though they took 57 overs to get to that stage.
Michael Papps led the way for the Wizards with an unbeaten 63 while Peter Fulton added 56 but time was at a premium and whether they have forced the issue enough to set up an outright win today is the big question.
The Aces started the third day 285 runs in deficit and with just five wickets in hand, so they would be happy enough with their day's work and may even get a chance to win tomorrow should the Wizards set them a tantalising target.
A patient 101 from Anaru Kitchen, scored off 220 balls and in a tick over four hours, and a brisk 69 from New Zealand international Kyle Mills -- the pair put on 115 for the sixth wicket -- somewhat steadied the ship but after both departed, the Wizards had no problems mopping up the tail.
Wizards opening bowler Ryan McCone, an uncontracted player who had taken just five wickets in his first four matches, was the standout, doubling his first-class wicket tally with five for 46 from 17 overs.
Full scorecard