Cricket: Scene set for run-chase at University Oval

Otago are poised to leave Auckland a sporting runchase as they pursue maximum points in their Plunket Shield cricket match in Dunedin.

Otago ended the third and penultimate day on 170 for two in their second innings at University Oval today, holding an overall lead of 319 runs.

With three sessions remaining, captain Craig Cumming will tomorrow contemplate a declaration at some stage as he pushes for maximum haul of eight points.

Otago have already pocketed two points for gaining first innings honours after Cumming's opposite Richard Jones declared Auckland's innings at 238 for seven at tea, conceding a deficit of 149 runs.

The home side quickly extended that advantage as Cumming and Leighton Morgan scored freely, Cumming making 54 from only 64 balls and Morgan 48 off 51 as Otago looked to speed the game along.

Greg Todd followed their lead, smacking 42 not out off only 32 balls before the close, with three sixes and the same number of fours.

Earlier, Auckland had Tim McIntosh and Reece Young to thank for getting them out of a spot of bother when they resumed this morning at 28 for three chasing Otago's first innings of 387.

McIntosh made 81 and Young 80 to ensure their side safely reached the follow-on mark before captain Jones called his batsmen in.

McIntosh, the New Zealand test opener, and Young put on 131 for the fourth wicket after morning rain forced a delayed start today and were only parted when medium-fast bowler Anthony Bullick accepted a return catch to end McIntosh's stay after he hit 11 fours and one six in a touch over three hours.

Young stuck to his task before being caught by Cumming off Nick Beard, having hit 12 boundaries in 154 minutes.

Left-arm quick Neil Wagner was impressive in taking two for 29 for Otago, while Bullick finished with three for 51 off 13 overs.