Firebirds pair boost hopes

A century stand between State Wellington Firebirds middle-order batsmen Grant Elliott and Stu Mills gave their side an outside chance of first-innings points at Christchurch.

Chasing State Canterbury Wizards’ imposing 613 for seven, Elliott made an unbeaten 73 and Mills 53 not out as Wellington recovered from 198 for five to an end-of-day total of 316 without further loss.

Resuming on 55 without loss, spinner Todd Astle and quick bowler Hamish Bennett claimed two wickets apiece.

However, Elliott and Mills put on 118 to boost the Firebirds’ hopes.