| Player: | L Balaji, VVS Laxman |
| Event: | India in New Zealand 2008/09 |
DateLine: 7th March 2009
Stylish Indian middle-order batsman VVS Laxman made a stodgy 44 to help Otago Volts gain control over Wellington Firebirds in a low-scoring four-day match of the New Zealand Cricket state championship at Dunedin today. The classy Hyderabadi struck six boundaries in his 123-minute stay at the wicket and shared a crucial 77-run third wicket stand with G Todd (73). The Volts, who were bowled out for 174 in their first innings, skittled out the Firebirds for a modest 139 to take a 35-run lead. In their second essay, the Volts were on 210 for the loss of seven wickets when stumps were drawn. Right-arm seamer Laxmipathy Balaji picked up the crucial wicket of Nathan McCullum giving away 39 runs in his 18 overs. Elsewhere at Rangiora, former India skipper Rahul Dravid, who made a dignified 102 yesterday, spent most of his time in the dressing room as Canterbury Wizards stretched their overnight score of 388 for five to 543 all out in 158.2 overs.
