A devastating spell of bowling from Lockie Ferguson has led the Auckland Aces past a hapless Northern Brave side in Mount Maunganui this afternoon.
Primed to make his return to the Black Caps next week, Ferguson showed why he is one of the most feared T20 bowlers in the world, taking 4-14 off four overs to restrict the Brave to just 121.
Ferguson was on the mark right from ball one and dismissed Henry Cooper for 5 in his first over. He clean bowled Jeet Raval in his next over, as the Brave were reduced to 16/3 in the fifth over.
While Joe Carter (48) and Brett Hampton (25) rebuilt the innings, they were unable to get their side to a total that would challenge the visitors.
Opening the batting in place of Martin Guptill, who has travelled to the UAE to compete in the ILT20, and Finn Allen, who has joined the Black Caps squad, Sean Solia was an able replacement, smashing a 42-ball 67 that included five sixes, as the Aces made short work of the target.
Aces captain Robbie O'Donnell (35no) provided ample support as the Aces cruised home in the 17th over to secure an eight-wicket victory.
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