State Canterbury Wizards opener Michael Papps maintained his impressive form with an undefeated hundred on the opening day of the vital State Championship game against State Wellington Firebirds.
Papps made 160 as Canterbury, who were sent into bat, made 327 for three on the first day of a match between two of the three teams with realistic hopes of hosting the first-class final.
Papps put on 201 with partner Todd Astle, who was removed three runs short of his maiden first-class century.
Shanan Stewart (eight) and Andrew Ellis made brief contributions, but Papps stayed the distance, ending the day alongside Chris Harris (13not out) as the crease.
Grant Elliott removed Astle and Ellis, with Michael Burns claiming Stewart.
