Auckland keeper Elizabeth Buchanan. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)
During a Super Smash clash against Canterbury Magicians at Eden Park’s Outer Oval, Auckland Hearts’ wicketkeeper, Elizabeth Buchanan, left the field after a horrifying incident. The game, marked by bizarre events, saw Buchanan facing a serious situation when an outfield throw hit her head, leaving an immediate welt on her forehead. Unfortunately, she was not wearing a helmet but a cap.
The 17-year-old keeper, Buchanan, had her view obstructed by Canterbury batter Jodie Dean, who was running between the wickets when the ball came at an uneasy height. The ball may have deflected off Dean’s helmet, impacting the wicketkeeper which forced her to leave the field immediately.
In another incident that drew attention, Canterbury batter Kate Anderson faced a controversial decision, being given out caught behind down the leg side for 26. However, replays were indefinite regarding whether her bat had actually made contact with the ball. Adding to the unusual events, Auckland’s innings commenced uniquely with a Canterbury appeal against Anna Browning in the second over. Despite Browning appearing to knock the ball away with her hand, a review resulted in her being declared not out, as replays showed no contact. Following these peculiar moments, the match proceeded with Auckland losing a series of regular wickets.
Defending champions Canterbury edge out Auckland in Women’s Super Smash opener
Now speaking of the game, Canterbury Magicians set a target of 128-8 in 20 overs after batting first. Kate Anderson made a contribution of 25 off 26, and Skye Bowden delivered an impressive performance with figures of 4-19 off 4 for Auckland Hearts. Meanwhile, Gabby Sullivan secured three wickets, and Frankie Mackay claimed two, thwarting Auckland’s run-chase aspirations.
The Hearts concluded their innings at 116-7 in 20 overs, with Sullivan and Frankie finishing with figures of 3-22 and 2-19, respectively. Ultimately, defending champions Canterbury clinched victory in the thrilling opening game of the women’s Super Smash, winning by 11 runs against the Hearts.