Batting: Doug Pirie 12* (incl 1 boundary & strike rate of 70+), Jack Naylor and James Rae both 3*

Bowling: Owen Slater 2/18 (4), Jack Naylor 1/5 (3) including 1 maiden, James Pike 1/18 (3)

Notable Player: Man of the match went to James P for his all round great performance including calling and running between the wickets.

Game Summary

The Strikers arrived with great enthusiasm to kick off their season at the well manicured CGS junior field. Student coaches Jack & Nate rallied the lads with fun warm up activities and an encouraging pep talk including explanation of field positions & game plan with support from parent coach Geoff. CGS won the toss and elected to bat giving us the welcome chance to bond in the field.

Being alert, chasing hard and even some backing up between teammates were admired from the sidelines. Special mention to Alfie Schneider for bravely opening the bowling and his excellent commitment to running and diving in the field. Owen struck first in the 3rd over supported with a super catch at cover by James Gooley and then again in the 9th thanks to Doug's classy stumping when 1st WK (he made it look like the opposition had fallen briefly asleep...) James P and Jack N both rattled the stumps for their wickets (what a glorious sound and sight!)

Welcome drinks and snacks at innings break refreshed the Strikers to face our batting innings with determination and a spirit of fun against our more experienced opposition. Runs were hard to come by with CGS' tight bowling and fielding, combined with many Strikers still to learn about the protocols of calling, running between the wickets and batting partnerships - they did a great job! Doug entertained us with some big hits and a well deserved boundary (probably worth more as we reckon the field markers were set long!)

Hard to believe it was the 1st cricket game for majority of the team - they displayed admirable sportsmanship, unity and spirit which makes for a promising and enjoyable season ahead, together with such a lovely group of supportive parents willing to help contribute each week. Many thanks to Manager Katie for all her time and effort to organise and set us up so well from the start!

To finish, some inspiration from the Great Don Bradman himself, "Champions keep playing until they get it right" which complements the mission of the Strikers to have fun learning together in an encouraging, positive team environment to grow as people and cricketers.

Willow Talk #1 - week ending 19th October

Stage 3 Div 1

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Marist Royal

Marist Royal (6/182) defeated Eastlake Demons (7/155)