The Otago Sparks have picked up their first win in nine matches as they defeated the Central Hinds in Dunedin.
The Sparks posted an imposing 231 for five in their innings and managed to cling to victory by one run.
Otago’s form with the bat as of late had been disappointing to say the least, but in a bold move the Southerners put the pressure on themselves and opted to bat first.
It turned out to be exactly what they needed.
The home team batted consistently from the get go and made it to 76 before they lost their first wicket. Lisa Grant and Katey Martin took over though and managed to get the Southerners to 161 after 35 overs.
Unfortunately Martin was then dismissed just 10 short of what would have been a deserved 100, but she had done her job and ignited the Sparks’ batting line-up into life.
The end of the innings saw helpful contributions from Victoria Abbott (20*) and Natasha Miles (23*) to help lift the Sparks to their highest total this season of 231 for five.
In reply Central managed to keep in touch during the run-chase, but failed to get on top of their rivals for the majority of the innings.
Sara McGlashan was the back-bone for her side as she made a superb 75 to give Central a chance. She was helped by cameos from Rachel Priest (29) and Esther Lanser (15), before being dismissed in the 41st over.
It looked like it would be easy going for Otago at this point, but a massive effort from Sandee Hui (34)and Abby Burrows (15)nearly shocked the Sparks as the Hinds came just two runs away from victory.
Tanya Morrison was the best of the bowlers as she helped her team to their first win with figures of two for 35 from ten overs.
It shouldn’t have been as close as it was, but Otago will be relieved to register some very important points on the Action Cricket Cup points table.
