Doug Bracewell delivered a reminder of his class as the Central Stags pipped the Northern Brave by three wickets with two balls to spare in a thrilling men's Super Smash game in New Plymouth.
Doug Bracewell bowls for Central Districts Stags against Northern Brave at Pukekura Park in New Plymouth. Photo: Photosport
The results were reversed in the earlier women's match at the same Pukekura Park venue, when Northern Brave held out the Central Hinds in a four-wicket win.
Experienced Black Caps international Bracewell took 2-30 off four overs - the tightest figures of the game - as Northern posted an impressive 217-9.
The home side appeared to be behind the required run rate for much of their pursuit before in-form batter Josh Clarkson raced to 58 off 29 balls and Bracewell unleashed a late cameo, blasting five sixes in his 18-ball 39.
Those batting fireworks overshadowed the deeds of Tim Seifert and Jeet Raval, who compiled rapid half-centuries at the top of the order for Northern.
It was Central's second win from three games, lifting them level on the standings with unbeaten Wellington.
The women's match was equally dramatic, with Central slumping to a third straight loss despite a fine all-round display from Hannah Rowe, who claimed 2-11 with the ball and scored 50 in a run chase that fell just short.
Jess Watkin plays a shot for Central Hinds against Northern Brave in their women's Super Smash game at Pukekura Park. Photo: Photosport
Northern's 146-8 was buled on 50 from Sam Barriball before the home side was dismissed for 142, with Rowe bowled off the final delivery. Australian import Amanda-Jade Wellington taking 3-29 for the winning side.
It was Northern's first victory of the competition while winless Central prop up the standings.
- RNZ
