Suzie Bates put in a real captain’s effort to help the Otago Sparks beat the Canterbury Magicians by 54 runs at Mainpower Oval, Rangiora.
Bates crushed a whopping 160 not out as the Sparks made 286 for three from their allotted overs. In reply the Magicians made it past 200, but were bowled out for 236 in the 47th over.
A number of starts gave the Magicians some hope, but wickets at crucial times hurt the home side. Amy Satterthwaite (55) and Meg Kendal (39) were the biggest contributors, but the required run-rate was too high, creating pressure on the batsman.
Bates was not only dynamic with the bat, but also the ball as she claimed figures of three for 44 from 8.4 overs.
It capped off a superb match for the talented all-rounder, who had earlier dominated the Magicians’ bowling attack.
The innings was highlighted by 11 fours and came off 142 balls. It showed just how world class she is and puts her in great form ahead of the upcoming Rose Bowl series against Australia.
She was aided by Lisa Grant (46) and Katey Martin (33), to take the Volts well past 250.
It marks a rare win over their northern neighbours for Otago and will give them plenty of confidence for the rest of the season.
The two teams meet again tomorrow for the second One Day match.
