Sparks gain capital victory

A Katey Martin half-century rescued State Otago Sparks from a tricky position to eventually defeat State Wellington Blaze by 36 runs at the Basin Reserve

Martin hit 75 and established vital partnerships with A Bell (16) and Alana Kane (28) to move the visitors from trouble at 39 for four before setting 228, at a cost of eight wickets.

Wellington were set a revised target in 43 overs but an economical spell by Otago captain Sarah Tsukigawa helped leave them short.

Tsukigawa claimed three for 12 from as Wellington ended on 153 for seven, a total boosted by Amanda Cooper’s 52 from 62 balls.