Tickner does the trick with a hat-trick for CD

Blair Tickner was the star as the fifth round of the Plunket Shield season got underway, claiming a hat-trick for Central Districts as bowlers excelled across the country.

CD v WELLINGTON

High-flying Wellington were dragged down to earth by Central Districts in Nelson, all out for 171 thanks in large part to a helpful 10th-wicket partnership.

Fraser Colson scored a fighting 88 from 131 balls for Wellington, but it was Central Districts bowler Blair Tickner who took the headlines with his stunning finish to the innings.

Wellington struggled throughout their innings, but at 126-6 Tickner made things worse by producing the 41st hat-trick in New Zealand first class cricket. Colson was eventually the last man dismissed, again by Tickner, giving the CD man 4-45 from his 13.2 overs.

At stumps, Central were 114-5.

AUCKLAND v CANTERBURY

Auckland had issues of their own with the bat, stumbling to 181 all out at home to Canterbury.

Daniel Sams had a day to remember for the visitors, rolling through the Auckland top order and cleaning up the tail, taking 4-55 in his 15.5 overs, before scoring a half century with the bat.

Only Mark Chapman got more than a start for Auckland, with a quick 76 from 72 balls. Elsewhere the team struggled, in particular with the seam generated by Andrew Ellis, with the former Black Cap taking 3-50.

When it came their turn, Canterbury made a stuttering start but enjoyed a good late partnership