The wet season once again threatened to disrupt cricket fixtures last week, as a heavy shower fell at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex last Friday just before matches were set to commence. Fortunately, the rain ceased by 4:30 pm, allowing games to get underway, albeit slightly delayed.
The Challengers played on a newly mowed pitch in the outfield of the Barry Richards Field, which made the bounce of the soft ball more predictable and runs easier to score. Aria and Lincoln capitalised on these conditions to top-score with 11 runs unbeaten. The partnership of Hadley and Mekena contributed nine runs, while Jai and Noah followed closely with eight. Kyeem, Levi, Corey, Jack, Jai, and Olivia each secured a wicket, while Henry, Harvey, Corbett, and Nicholas finished the game with multiple dismissals. Olivia and Jack were awarded the McDonald's Sports Awards for their exceptional bowling and batting performances.
On the astro pitch at Field 4, the "Hardball" Blue Group cricketers were eager to return to the game following the delayed start of the second half of the season after the Christmas break. Kye Quinlan top-scored with 15 runs unbeaten, followed by Tait Parker with 12. Jake Cullen struck a four on his way to 11 runs unbeaten. Jake also claimed a wicket, while Corey Pensini, Tyler Smith, Jacob Adcock, Tait Parker, Kye Quinlan, and Kip Nicholas each took one as well. Kip played a crucial role in three runouts, earning him the McDonald's Sports Award for this group alongside Mason Harvey, who also received recognition.
The Gold Group, playing on the other astro pitch, was equally enthusiastic to return to action after the long break. Marshall Parker maintained his impressive form from last year, leading the scoring with 20 runs unbeaten. Mark Wilkie and Oscar Mahoney contributed 11 runs each, both remaining not out. Jacques Gardener stood out among the bowlers, recording figures of 1 for 5, followed by Ben Watkins, who secured 1 for 14. Marshall claimed the prestigious McDonald's Sports Award for the Gold Group after executing two runouts and taking a catch.
With the season now in full swing, players and supporters eagerly anticipate another competitive week of cricket.
Contributed with thanks to Home Hill Junior Cricket.
Jack and Olivia with their Mcdonalds Sports Award
The Challengers
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