The Volts went more than a year without a win in the format but released the pressure valve with a three-wicket triumph against Central Districts at Pukekura Park, in New Plymouth.
Otago coach Rob Walter has used 19 players during the campaign as he searched for ways to reverse the team’s run of poor results.
He dropped internationals Jimmy Neesham and Mark Craig last month and former Black Caps opener Hamish Rutherford has been overlooked for the starting XI for the past two games. Even Black Caps test bowler Neil Wagner had a stint carrying the drinks.
It was a bold call to leave out players of that calibre, but Walter was rewarded for his courage when two younger players produced key performances.
Pace bowler Michael Rae took three for 14 from four overs to help restrict Central Districts to 147 for nine, and Matt Bacon was frugal with one for 29.
"Those guys have kept working while waiting for their opportunities, so it was great to see them take their chance.
"Both bowled exceptionally well, which was exciting, but more importantly for us, it fits in nicely with our plans moving forward."
Black Cap Anaru Kitchen had a strong game with three for 24, as well. He also made a crucial contribution with the bat, striking 34 runs from 22 balls.
The captain, Rob Nicol, top-scored with 43 from 41 and fellow opener Neil Broom’s rapid 22 got the Volts’ reply off to a quick start.
A couple of late wickets fell, but Wagner whacked a six from the first ball he faced to seal the win in the 19th over.
The Volts’ previous win was also against Central Districts, but on December 21, 2016.
"Obviously we have had a tough twenty20 campaign, so it was nice to get a win under the belt," Walter said.
"If we did anything differently it was that we won a few of the key moments which we have not necessarily done in games prior to that.
"There are still things we can do better, but it was great to win a game."
Otago’s next assignment is a return match against Central Districts in Invercargill tomorrow. The Volts are out of contention, but Canterbury remains firmly in the race after toppling the defending champion Wellington by 62 runs at Hagley Oval yesterday.
