THE South Canterbury primary A boys cricket team struck a draw in yesterday’s play of the South Island Primary Schools tournament in Rangiora.
The team were up against Otago Country, formerly Central Otago, who after two days were sitting first equal in the tournament.
The game was good tussle, played in 32 degrees celsius heat.
Otago Country won the toss and batted first, declaring at 173 for 7.
South Canterbury enjoyed the two hours before lunch, with some excellent bowling backed up by good feilding to restrict Otago Country to 65 for 4 at lunch.
Wickets were shared around for South Canterbury, Conor Scott took 2 for 36, but had 2 for 7 after seven overs.
Picking up a wicket apiece were Nick O’Brien, who took 1 for 22, and Jack Macfarlane, who took 1 for 17 off eight overs.
Brett Walker took 1 for 26 and opening bowler Liam Cosgrove took 1 for 30 off 10 overs.
A comeback with bat in hand was a fairly tough ask for the young side but Jack Woodley put 22 on the scoreboard and Patrick Simpson, who batted for 133 minutes, made 43 runs for the first wicket, finally leaving the crease for 25.
South Canterbury lost wickets at key times to finish on 93 for 8 at the close of play, but parents, coaches and supporters were pleased.
The team is currently placed about mid-field in the 14-strong competition. Today they play Christchurch Red.