Ryder's 'encouraging' return to cricket 'overshadowed' by centuries from teammates

Centuries by Aaron Redmond and Michael Bracewell overshadowed a handy return to first-class cricket by Jesse Ryder in Otago's run-scoring fest in a Plunket Shield match against Wellington.

According to Stuff.co.nz, Ryder ended 48 not out in his first competitive innings since he suffered a serious assault outside a Christchurch bar in March.

However, he had to wait some time to stride to the crease on his old home ground after Redmond (154) and Bracewell (107) dominated the opening two sessions, the report said.

Despite losing the toss, Otago dominated day one of the Plunket Shield season by racking up 358-3 by stumps at the Basin Reserve, the report added.