Tour match, Fenner's: New Zealand 128-3 drew with British Universities  Astle took just under two hours over his half-century |
Rain prevented Nathan Astle trying for a century as New Zealand's tour match was abandoned as a draw.
After spending two days in the Fenner's pavilion because of the weather, Astle hit a chanceless 64 not out against British Universities.
But rain became heavier after lunch, leaving the tourists 128-3.
It was not all good news for the Kiwis as opener Michael Papps was trapped lbw first ball but Mark Richardson made 39 and Scott Styris a brisk 22.
Just one ball was possible after the lunch break, but it was enough time for medium-pacer Lee Daggett to have Styris caught behind.
Astle and left-hander Richardson had shared a second wicket stand of 90 before Richardson fell leg before to Tim Linley.
However, Stris scored quickly with three fours and the only six of the day off spinner Simon Marshall.
The tourists' schedule now takes them to Worcester, where they begin a four-day game on Friday.
British Universities: J H K Adams, O S Anwar, L Duggett, I Dawood (Wkt), T Linkey, P J McMahon, S J Marshall, C D Nash, D Shirazi, W R Smith, D H Wigley (Capt). New Zealand: M H Richardson, M H W Papps, N J Astle, S B Styris, C D McMillan, C L Cairns (Capt), B B McCullum (Wkt), J D P Oram, D L Vettori, D R Tuffey, S E Bond.
MMIX
E-mail this to a friend 
Printable version 
