Devon Conway’s class was again on show as he steered the Wellington Firebirds to a comfortable seven-wicket win over the Auckland Aces at Eden Park Outer Oval.

Chasing just 134 to win, Conway hit nine fours and a six on his way to 78 not out off just 54 balls to ensure the Firebirds got home in a canter.

Having won the toss and electing to bat, Martin Guptill (42 off 34) started well for the hosts.

However, the innings fell away badly in the middle overs with five wickets falling in 22 balls. Firebirds spinners Malcolm Nofal (2-13) and skipper Michael Bracewell (2-5) were the chief destroyers through that period.

Having been 87-7 at one point, the Aces tail managed to scramble to 133-9, which was not enough to trouble the strong Firebirds batting lineup.

With just one win from their six matches, the Aces will need to find some momentum with three consecutive home games upcoming.

The Firebirds have four wins from their five matches and a hot run of form leading into their next match, against the Knights at Bay Oval on New Year’s Day.

Article added: Tuesday 31 December 2019