Whanganui sides in home semi race

Both Property Brokers United and Wanganui Vet Services Marist could play at Tasman Tanning (Victoria) Park in cricket’s Coastal Challenge semifinals next weekend — either separately or against each other.

This weekend will be a unique final round-robin in the nine-year history of the inter-district competition with the four semifinalists already confirmed, and the three that are playing will take on the three sides that have missed out.

Marist defeated Roofbox Paraparaumu at home last weekend, Burger King Red Star won against Weraroa CC, while United and Kāpiti Old Boys shared the points after their rainedout tie.

This means two-time defending champions Levin Old Boys are now too far back from fourth-placed Kāpiti, who take the remaining bye this Saturday.

They will want to make a statement on Saturday against United, currently on top of the table via net run-rate from Red Star and Marist.

Marist take on Weraroa CC while Red Star face Paraparaumu.

Marist should be able to improve on their line-up from the squad which has won clutch games in the last fortnight — with bowling-allrounder Ross Kinnerley due to return from injury and Tom Dempster back to strengthen the batting after missing last weekend.

United could have some personnel changes but will rely on the likes of Simon Badger, Tom Lance, Chris Sharrock and Brendon Walker to be there for the duration.

Draws for March 9 (12pm start)

Coastal Challenge Cup 50-over: United v Levin Old Boys, Paraparaumu v Red Star, Weraroa CC v Marist. Kāpiti Old Boys bye.

P2-40: Whanganui Renegades v Whanganui High School 1st XI, Wicket Warriors Whanganui v Property Brokers United P2s, Matt Burke Engineering Marton Saracens bt Whanganui Collegiate 2nd XI by default.

P3-30: Awa City Cavaliers v Kaitoke Knight Riders, Whanganui High School P3’s v Whanganui Collegiate P3s, Matt Burke Engineering Marton Saracens P3 v Wanganui Vet Services Marist 2nd XI