FIRST XI
The Ones headed out to the dreaded Serpells Reserve where a bad memory lies for some of us. Hmm… Will won the toss and elected to bat, opening with himself and Knotty. Sorry Grady and Knotty. Grades was out there for two balls before his jetlag kicked in and was knocked over by arguably one of the best balls seen this season. 1 for 1. Knotty and Will batted for around 13 overs before Knotty was caught short of his ground in a quick single. 2 for 27. The inform Julian Georgiou joined Will out in the middle and they put on a great partnership (59) before Will was caught. Enter the Green Machine, who batted through to the last over before chopping on. Stiffler, who we’ve decided wants to hit a 6 on every ground he plays at, batted well and hit his token 6 straight down the ground. The tail wagged for us and we set East Doncaster a respectable 168 for the win.
Our attack opened with Greeny and Stiffler who bowled exceptionally well. So well the batsmen couldn’t even get an edge on it. So Will made a change and brought on Grades and Haydn Blackman who utilised the wet conditions beautifully. As mentioned, our bowlers were too good for their openers and Grades managed to find his way through the gate of the Number 2 & 3 batsmen. Haydn claimed his first wicket for the season, bowling nicely in wet, slippery conditions. He even managed to show glimpses of his Hulk days (and like his dad) telling the captain what he thought. In brief, edge went down to third man, Hulk questioned why so deep, Will replied he was hoping for a top edge to which Hulk replied, “Well I won’t be bowling any of those!” Mind you, unlike his old man, two balls later a top edge to third man. Anyway, back to the cricket. We ended up having to abandon the match with lightning all around the ground, getting really slippery out there too. 3 points each. But we can hold our heads high as this ground that holds so many demons for us, had seen an exorcism performed that only Mother Nature could stop the Mighty Panthers claim another 6 points.
SECOND XI
Unfortunately we had to forfeit the Second XI. It is difficult when 12 players have to pull out to replace, but so be it. We are putting together 3 sides this week with the Vets hopefully back in action. Please let us know if you are available.
