Player power prevailed but a stand-off resulted in play in
Otago's first-class match against Auckland at the University
Oval delayed by 15 minutes yesterday.
The visiting team, captained by Gareth Hopkins, was not happy
about the matting protecting the test wicket and wanted it
removed before beginning play.
New Zealand Cricket grounds and facilities manager Ian
McKendry entered the discussion, before umpires Phil Jones
and Ashley Mehrotra asked ground staff to remove the
offending covering.
The other talking point was the colour of the pitch. It was
left blotchy after rain got through a hole in the covers
almost two weeks ago.
It did not affect the way the surface played, though, with
Auckland winning the toss and electing to bat.
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