Hollymount Park - NDCC 3rd Grade has overcome a shaky start Saturday to post 177 in the Semi Final on a ground where 150 is typically a good score. Losing the toss the Butchers were surprised to find themselves invited to bat as stalwarts Dave Joinking and Matt Benstead strode to the crease.
Things did not go well as both openers fell cheaply, as did middle order Chris Brown and Adam Van Wijk; but as they were dropping the ever reliable Aaron McRae (60) was still there. He guided the Butchers to relative security before he too fell just as a big score was up for grabs.
When Captain Pat Tobin was dismissed early it was left to the lower middle order to spark a resurrection. In a team where virtually every batting position has knocked up a half century (including #11) this season, Northern Districts has had someone put their hand up in every bout of adversity. Today was no different as the Wilsons - Curtis and Jason, batted with aplomb. Dapto might be found consoling Keira about these two in the near future.
Jason's mighty year continued with 35 while Curtis' 28 was crucial in ensuring the Butchers put up a competitive 177. Pete Cleaves (15) hammered a few late runs as well in another showing as to why this team bats so deep and has gone undefeated all year.
Keira bowled well; especially against the top order, but will be slightly disappointed they aren't chasing a sub 150 score. They have setup a match for the taking for whichever team plays the strongest on Day Two.
More to come...
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