• Howick and Botany Times

Frustrating final for Aces

CRICKET’S highs and lows were felt sharply by Howick Pakuranga’s Auckland Aces players in their 50-over Ford Trophy final loss to Central Districts.

With the bat, all-rounder Colin Munro complemented first-drop Neal Parlane’s century with 68 runs from 51 balls, giving the Aces a respectable total of 282 on New Plymouth’s petite Pukekura Park last Sunday.

In the Central Stags innings, left-arm seam bowler Mitchell McClenaghan bounced back from a 10-run opening over to claim three wickets in his first spell.

Munro started economically with the ball as the Stags consolidated their innings, but was clubbed for 20 from one over by leg spinner Tarun Nethula late in the match, finishing with figures of 0-45 from six overs.

McClenaghan, who had 3-80 from his 10, was also dispatched for 20 runs at the death leaving six required from the final over, which Central got with a ball to spare.

Registrations open at ’Ranga

YOUNG rugby enthusiasts still buzzing from world cup fever can now sign-up to channel that energy onto the footy field.

Junior registration for Pakuranga United Rugby Club opens this week, with training set to get under way in late March.

The clubrooms are open this Friday from 3-7pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 1-4pm for players to weigh in and pick up their rugby pack, which includes a free ball. Details can be entered online beforehand at www.purc.co.nz to speed up the process.

General manager Steve Hackett says the under-5s and -6s are the club’s biggest grades, with nearly 200 players last season. “It’s a great way to be introduced to the community and make friendships through rugby,” he says.

Grade days for players progressing up an age group, and to bigger fields or starting tackling, are being held throughout March. Contact the club for more information.