The Bartercard New Zealand Taranaki women have been left frustrated

The Bartercard New Zealand Taranaki women have been left frustrated after rain caused the abandonment of their Shrimpton Trophy match against Manawatu in Feilding yesterday.

The side was in the box seat for a crucial win before the rain, which disrupted the match throughout the day, set in for good, leaving Taranaki just 40 runs short of the result.

Having won the toss and opted to bowl in the Megan Washington Challenge Cup match at Kowhai Park, Taranaki dismantled the Manawatu lineup, dismissing them for 85 in the 26th over. Emily Cunningham was particularly effective with the ball, taking a well-earned 5/22, while Kate Baxter was also back in the wickets, taking 3/22.

Keeper Jessie Hollard shone behind the stumps with three superb catches standing up, while Cara Hollard also took a brilliant diving catch in an all-round strong fielding display.

With wet weather lurking Taranaki had no intention of mucking around in the chase but were dealt a blow when Cunningham was given out early. From there though, Jessie Hollard (20 not out) and Sophie Campbell (15 not out) had the game well in control when the rain ended it with Taranaki 46/1 after 11 overs.

The frustrating outcome leaves Taranaki still in third place on the table, whereas a win would have seen them move into the lead.

Manawatu remain on top, two points clear of Hawkes Bay and Taranaki, while Wairarapa and Nelson are also still in the mix with games up their sleeve.

It means Taranaki’s double-header weekend against Hawkes Bay in New Plymouth in February becomes hugely significant for both teams in the final outcome.

Taranaki retains the Megan Washington Trophy – played for between Manawatū Cricket Association and Taranaki each year in memory of Megan, a talented cricketer who represented both provinces before she passed away in 2019.

Full match and competition details are available here at Play HQ