Central Districts can salute stalwart Michael Mason, who signed off his career in fairytale fashion when he helped win the Ford Trophy one-day final with one ball to spare.
Mason, a 37-year-old better known for his seam bowling, covered himself in glory by clouting a career high 41 not out off 19 balls as the Stags chased down the Auckland Aces' challenging 282 for eight in New Plymouth.
Mason, who'd early picked up three wickets, clubbed 20 runs off the 49th over to leave the hosts requiring only six off the final over from Chris Martin at Pukekura Park.
He and Martin Kain, who ended up unbeaten on 23 off 15, duly completed their work to cap an outstanding chase from the Stags after their cause looked doomed at 226 for eight in the 46th over.
