Kiwi players making their mark in Sydney grade cricket

New Zealand's connection with first grade cricket in Sydney was apparent again on Saturday.

Last week former Central Districts batsman Joseph Hill, who is now living permanently in Sydney scored 123 not out for his Randwick side. However, he wasn't so fortunate on Saturday as he was out for a duck while Australian international Simon Katich scored 177 against Mosman. Randwick Petersham declared at 428/6 and Mosman were 14/0 at stumps.

Hill hasn't given up returning to New Zealand to have another shot at breaking into the first-class scene but for the moment is taking his chance in Australia.

Otago's Brendon McCullum is also playing in the competition until October 31 and made his mark yesterday for the UTS-Balmain side by taking five catches as Fairfield-Liverpool were dismissed for 208 with UTS-Balmain 76/1 at stumps.

The Northern Districts connection saw Scott Styris make 37 in Gordon's total of 216 while Daryl Tuffey took four for 60 for Sutherland who were 132.1 at stumps with Styris having none for 18 off five overs.

James Marshall scored 40 for Eastern Suburbs in their total of 123 while Hawkesbury were 136/4 at stumps.

Bruce Martin had a tough time at the bowling crease as Penrith scored 305 against Manly-Warringah. Martin sent down 24 overs for one for 105.