Biting back with the ball in a devastating middle session on the second afternoon at the Basin Reserve, Otago Volts captain Jacob Duffy snared an outstanding first-class career-best seven for 89.

The captain's sorely needed effort ensured the Firebirds lost their last six first innings wickets for just 67 runs (and three of the bigger wickets, Devon Conway, Jimmy Neesham and Logan van Beek, for just five runs) - handing the Volts the maximum bowling bonuses.

It still wasn't enough to stop the Firebirds from pocketing a 173-run first innings lead, however, the fightback had the Volts openers padding up at tea, and firing up for a big restitutional second innings.

Earlier, the home top order had been making sterling progress.

Rachin Ravindra continued on from overnight to reach 76, while the prolific Devon Conway was looking good for the first Firebirds hundred of the summer - until he shouldered arms to Duffy on 96 and discovered his off-pole lying on the turf.

The pair had taken their side to 151 for two. Even at 152 for two - with the quick loss of Michael Bracewell in the following over, it was a solid enough start.

Tom Blundell set to work on a positive half century and, at 82 off 84 balls, was looking likely to get to triple figures in good time. When he was trapped by Duffy, it was arguably the Volts captain's key wicket - setting the dramatic tailspin in motion, en route to Duffy's eighth bag.

The Volts needed a sound start to their second dig on a testing surface, and they didn't get it. Hamish Rutherford was lost at 29 for one, while fellow opener Cam Hawkins was forced to retire (not out) on eight.

Debutant Dale Phillips then fell cheaply again, bringing Neil Broom and Nick Kelly together at 37 for two. It had been an interesting day for Kelly who earned himself a line in next year's New Zealand Cricket Almanack with a spell of 0.0-0-12-0 after delivering two high full tosses.

Article added: Tuesday 22 October 2019