Photo / Richard Spranger

Defending champions Pukekohe Metro picked up a crucial Spark Regional Competition win over Hamilton Boys as they overcame the weather to bank vital points when most of their rivals were washed out.

James Kingham claimed 5-46 in an impressive bowling display to help restrict Hamilton Boys to 229-9 off their 50 overs.

Skipper Reid Somani also picked up two wickets.

Northern Districts representative Katene Clark made a welcome return for Pukekohe, scoring a brilliant 104 not out off just 59 balls to get the home side to the Duckworth Lewis target in the 20th over, without losing a wicket.

They were key competition points for Pukekohe Metro as many of their rivals had to settle for wash-outs. A rule change this season allows Pukekohe to keep their points – previously if the majority of matches in a round were abandoned, no team could score competition points.

Karaka’s Sam Varcoe scored his first century of the season as he banked 124 to help Karaka post 314-7 off their 50 overs batting first against Hamilton Old Boys.

He got help from Navjot Sran (39*), Luke Williamson (37) and Marcel Marconi (35).

Unfortunately, rain prevented the second innings from starting.

Grady Wilcox took 4-56 as Southern Counties had Cambridge 255-6 when rained forced the abandonment of their contest.

Sandeep Patel picked up another half century as Manukau City made their way to 93-5 against Weymouth before rain stopped play.

Papakura’s match against St Peters was abandoned after only a couple of overs.