Caps’ T20 opener a blinder
What an incredible performance by the Black Caps in the World Top 20 opener against Australia last Saturday. Not only did they hit the Aussies out of the Sydney Cricket Ground but the margin by which they won, 89 runs, was incredible.
Led by ex-South African Devon Conway, who scored 92 not out and newcomer Finn Allen blasting 42 from 16 balls, their final tally was 200. In reply Australia collapsed in the first five overs. Maungatapere and Northland seam bowler Tim Southee claimed three wickets for six runs. The Sydney Daily Telegraph described it as “a horror night for the tournament hosts. It’s now a do-or-die clash with favourites England. A loss and we are gone.”
However the biggest upset is two-time champions the West Indies sent packing by as aggressive Irish team.
I heard the Guinness flowed all night.
Thumbs up to the East Coast Heartland rugby side for winning the Lochore Cup against Mid Canterbury 25-20. Played at Ruatoria, the home crowd went berserk. The celebratory haka lasted for 10 minutes and celebrations continued for three days. This win is huge as the province has struggled for years and taken some massive defeats. Wellington were all class taking out the NPC Division I competition with a convincing win over Canterbury. It’s been 22 years since Wellington last
Heartland rugby
NPC
won a title with the likes of Christian Cullen and Tana Umaga in the squad. They deserve this success. They are holders of the Ranfurly Shield and to win in Christchurch was extra special. The ruthless physical contact in the match was superb and just blew Canterbury away.
At the conclusion of pool play last Sunday the Black Ferns go into the quarter finals as top seeds. They have a rematch against Wales on Saturday in Whangā rei. Their game a fortnight ago saw the Black Ferns claim a convincing 56-12 win. There will be big interest in the encounter between France and Italy. In a recent
Rugby World Cup
warm up game the Italians claimed victory, 26-19. The winner will play us if we knock out Wales. England, a big robust side front up against Australia while Canada and neighbours USA slug it out. What gets me is why these games are broadcast by Spark. Virtually all games are sold out but the governing body seems to want even more money. Many thanks to those who voted me in as their district councillor for the next three years. With a new mayor and deputy plus four new Mā ori representatives there could be some interesting changes ahead. I will continue to push for better infrastructure relating to our roads, waste water and prompt delivery of quality water to the people of Kaitaia from the Sweetwater aquifer.
I was told by the chief executive Blair King that water will flow by the end of November. I wouldn’t bet on it. Progress on this project has been poor. There is a distinct possibility the Far North could see another drought this summer. Hooking on to the aquifer is a must.
And that’s how Mat sees it.