The Auckland HEARTS have started 2020/21 with a seven-wicket defeat to the Central Hinds at Pukekura Park.

After a patient start by debutant Yaz Kareem and Saachi Shahri, the HEARTS came unstuck against challenging swing bowling from Hinds opening bowler Claudia Green (4-20).

Green took four of the first five wickets as the HEARTS fell to 22/5 in the 12th over. Monique Rees (3-15) kept the Hinds on top as the HEARTS lower-order attempted to stage a rebuild.

It wasn’t to be with the HEARTS all out for 49 in the 22nd over.

The highlight of the day for the HEARTS was the first wicket for debutant Molly Penfold, who impressed with the new ball. Jesse Prasad also nabbed a couple of wickets of her own, while Hinds No.3 Jess Watkin powered her way to an unbeaten 22 off 11 balls to seal the Hinds seven-wicket win.

The HEARTS get a second opportunity tomorrow in Round Two, starting from 10 AM.

Image Credit: PhotoSport NZ