Win keeps Magicians in chase

Perennial title challengers State Canterbury Magicians ensured they go into the final match of the regular season with a chance of returning to the State League final.

In a rain-reduced match in Timaru, Canterbury defeat State Otago Sparks by two wickets to stay in the hunt to reclaim the title.

Recalled White Fern Susie Bates’ 45 helped Otago to 134 in their 24-over allocation.

But national team captain White Ferns captain Haidee Tiffen (38), recent call-up Rowan Milburn (21) and youngster Erin Birmingham (18 not out from nine balls) helped decide matters.