Clarke in allround form in his ND debut

A stunning debut match for Te Awamutu Sports Cricket Club and Kaipaki Cricket Club’s Kristian Clarke, alongside strong performances from Black Caps all-rounder Mitch Santner and a pair of Joes helped Northern Districts men secure a convincing 213-run victory over the Wellington Firebirds in Whanga¯rei.

Clarke started his first-class career in a terrific way as he scored his maiden 50 in the morning session on day two and also picked up his first wicket when he nicked off Jamie Gibson.

The former New Zealand Under 19 representative added a further two wickets in the fourth innings.

Santner continued his fine form this summer, particularly with the bat, as he contributed scores of 40 and 74.

The latter was a part of a 132-run stand in the second innings with the skipper Joe Carter, who finished topscoring for the match with 76.

It was another Joe who starred in the fourth innings, Joe Walker this time as he picked up 4-50 to help bowl out the Firebirds short of their required target.

He was well supported by Ish Sodhi (3-39) in his first Plunket Shield match of the summer.

The side will be back in action on Friday when they take on the Central Stags in Napier.