The rain stayed away long enough last Friday for the penultimate week of Junior Cricket before the Christmas break, giving the young cricketers a chance to showcase their skills. Thanks to Dan and the grounds team, the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex fields were in top condition, despite the recent wet weather.
In the Challengers group, Noah Tanner and Corey Pensini stood out with a superb partnership of 19 runs, with Corey remaining not out. Batting wasn’t easy, but the bowlers made their mark, with Hadley, Anna, Royce, Lincoln, Noah, and Corey all taking wickets. For their excellent performances with both bat and ball, Corey and Noah received the "McDonald's Sports Awards" for the week.
Over on field 4, the "Blue Group" delivered an exciting match. Tait Parker and Kip Nicholas were impressive with the bat, scoring 16 and 15 runs respectively, both remaining unbeaten. Tait smashed three boundaries during his innings and also shone with the ball, taking 2 wickets for just 6 runs. Mazlyn Smith matched his bowling prowess, claiming two wickets herself, while Kyle Wilkie and Kayleah McCarthy took one wicket each. Kip Nicholas and Jake Cullen added to the action with a runout each. Tait’s all-round brilliance earned him a "McDonald's Sports Award," while Mazlyn’s spirited bowling and encouragement in the field saw her claim the other award.
In the "Gold Group," Marshall Parker delivered a standout performance, smashing five boundaries and one six in a blistering 24-ball innings of 35 runs, retiring not out. He also impressed with the ball, taking 2/9, earning him the "McDonald's Sports Award" for his efforts. Other noteworthy contributions came from Oscar Mahoney, who remained unbeaten with 16 runs, while Xavier Cross, Tyler Schultz, and Ben Watkins all took wickets. Ben also added a runout to his tally, and Oliver Calligaro made a great catch.
As the Christmas break approaches, the juniors continue to deliver fantastic performances each week, showcasing the depth of talent and enthusiasm within the Home Hill Cricket Association.
Contributed with thanks to HHCA Junior Co-Ordinator Scott Heidke.
Tait Parker and Mazlyn Smith were Blue Group standouts!
Marshall Parker shone in the Gold Group.
Challenger’s Noah Tanner and Corey Pensini made a perfect pair.