Bowler re-writes history books by smacking 82

Auckland bowler Rajvinder Sandhu has rewritten the record books in his second first-class domestic cricket match — with his bat.

Sandhu yesterday helped Auckland to a formidable firstinnings total of 461 in their Plunket Shield encounter with Northern Districts, coming in at No 11 and topscoring for his side.

The 25-year-old, who made his first-class debut last month, smacked 82 from 94 balls at Eden Park Outer Oval, crushing eight fours and five sixes in a two-hour stay in the middle.

Having come to the crease with Auckland on 322-9, Sandhu formed a 139-run partnership for the last wicket with Mitchell McClenaghan, who in making an unbeaten 73 also finished with his best career firstclass knock.

Sandhu's 82 was the highest score by a No 11 batsman in Auckland history, while his partnership with McClenaghan was also a provincial record.

The rookie seamer then turned around and opened the bowling but was luckless in six overs as Northern Districts reached stumps on day two on 212-2.

A century from Chad Bowes lifted Canterbury to a commanding position at the halfway mark of their clash with Otago in Christchurch.

The South African-born batsman opened the innings and struck a rapid 137 at Hagley Oval, helping the home side reach 240-6 in reply to Otago's 140. Andrew Ellis had earlier picked up the final two wickets in the visitors' first innings, finishing with 6-35 for his best first-class return.

In Napier, Will Young struck his third career century to put Central Districts in charge of their match with Wellington, compiling 124 as the hosts reached 318-7 at stumps.

With Central Districts beginning the day on 5-0 in reply to Wellington's 245, Young came to the crease with his side on 71-2 and formed handy partnerships with Jesse Ryder (61) and Dane Cleaver (47).

Opener Ben Smith (24no) and Ajaz Patel (0no) will look to increase Central Districts' 73-run lead.

— Kris Shannon