A's Steady against St Paul's

On a perfect day for swing bowling, Star arrived at St Paul's with the intention to bat all day, but after a quick look at the damp grassy pitch the decision was made to bowl even though Star was 2 short at the start of play.

The openings bowlers removed the top order in swift fashion, with the red ball swinging like a 1970's proverbial! It was very hot and muggy and the bowlers seemed to lose their zip a bit quicker than normal. The job was done however after a niggly 29 from a very lucky St Paul's tailender took the oppo to 143 all out. The Te Puke twins ( Ryan & Rohit) got Star off to a good start by seeing off the new ball, wondering if the Schoolboys would actually swing the ball if they didn't run in from the boundary trying to bowl 140kmph!

Controversy struck as David Gunn got bowled off a no-ball (for above the waist on the full) and the game descended into a bit of kayos before sanity prevailed and the game continued. David went on to make 63 which steered Star to first innings points. Star ended up with a small lead, and managed to get the night watchman to the crease courtesy of a super Charles Johnston yorker.

So the game is beautifully poised for an exciting day's cricket next week. If Star can manage to win this one they will move into second place on the points table just below the high flying Te Rapa.