Batting: Kaveer 59 (20 balls); Henry 30 (20 balls); Conor 29 (20 balls)

Bowling: Conor 4/9 off 4 overs; Sacha 4/26 off 4 overs; Rohan 3/16 off 4 overs

Royal headed to CGS for their second game of the season with plenty of confidence following an impressive opening-round performance. After losing the bat flip, the boys were sent in on a dewy morning, but with fantastic overhead conditions. A couple of unfortunate early-season injuries meant Charlie (broken hand) and Hayden (knee strain) were unavailable, leaving Royal with just six players. This did little to dampen the boys’ enthusiasm and energy.

Julian and Henry once again got

Royal off to a fantastic start, laying the platform for what is looking like a very strong Royal batting line-up. All six boys batted extremely well against a CGS bowling attack that included some serious heat.

A feature of the innings was the boys’ excellent calling and running between wickets. While the boundaries were flowing, the quick singles were plentiful, with the strike constantly rotating and the CGS bowlers unable to settle into a rhythm.

Henry again made an excellent contribution at the top of the order, while Conor continued his strong start to the season with 29. The highlight was once again Kaveer, who smashed 59 from just 20 balls to bring up his second half-century of the season. With contributions right through the order, Royal powered to a massive 264 from their 20 overs.

At the change of innings, CGS were extremely gracious in lending Royal a backstop — a fantastic display of sportsmanship. With the dew gone, Royal were defending a huge total on a lightning-fast outfield, where anything beating the inner ring was likely to race away. With only six fielders, the boys were certainly up against it.

However, this Royal team is proving themselves to be consummate professionals in every facet of the game. Their catching and ground fielding were outstanding, with the boys throwing themselves around and backing each other up brilliantly. Conor once again led from the front with 4/9, while Sacha claimed 4/26 and Rohan chipped in with 3/16. The bowlers were well supported by superb fielding, with Royal collecting an impressive 16 wickets, including three run-outs.Henry was outstanding behind the stumps, taking a great catch off Conor’s bowling and playing a key role in another run-out. Julian also took a terrific outfield catch and, along with some brilliant ground fielding, helped lead a tremendous defensive effort.

CGS were eventually restricted to 102 from their 20 overs, giving Royal a comprehensive 162-run victory.

Two games in, Royal have produced back-to-back dominant performances. More importantly, the boys are showing great cricket, teamwork and resilience, with their spirit shining through even with just six players available. The early signs are very promising for a fantastic season ahead.

Willow Talk #1 - week ending 18th October

Stage 2 Div 3

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Marist Cobalt

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Stage 2 Cobalt 2/104 defeated WCMCC 8/103