The C-GRADE finals kicked off this week with both matches operating on a knockout basis. The Grasshoppers embarked on a journey to face table-toppers Bordertown in our Semi-Final clash. Winning the toss, Bordertown opted to field first.
Byron and Harry made a solid start, weathering the opening bowlers. Byron came agonizingly close to reaching 50 runs, falling just short at 49. Kaniva’s top order displayed resilience, capitalizing on their time at the crease, culminating in a competitive total of 9/126.
In reply, Bordertown began with aggression, but Ajay Bradburn’s dismissal of Pilgrim in the second over provided the Grasshoppers with a much-needed breakthrough. Lachie Coad claimed the wicket of Dahlitz soon after. Byron Merrett’s quickfire 3-wicket haul from 2 overs rattled the middle order, while Olly Jewell’s superb bowling and fielding efforts kept Bordertown at bay. The match hung in the balance until the very end, with the Grasshoppers stifling runs and taking crucial wickets. However, Luke Steuart’s outstanding batting display for Bordertown ultimately sealed the victory in the 24th over.
Bordertown will now lock horns with Tintinara in the grand final next weekend, following Tintinara’s triumph over Keith in the other semi-final.
The Grasshoppers extend their gratitude to Zac Vivian for his exceptional coaching throughout the season, acknowledging his invaluable time and expertise invested in the team.
Batting Highlights:
K. Jewell: 1
P. Rabone: 0*
Bowling Stats:
B. Merrett: 3/32 (6)
A. Bradburn: 3/38 (3.5)
O. Jewell: 1/7 (5) (1 Maiden)
L. Coad: 1/11 (3)
J. Rabone: 0/11 (2)
A. Merrett: 0/26 (4)
Notable Catches by H. Tink, B. Merrett, and A. Bradburn
Top Scorers:
B. Merrett: 49
H. Tink: 19
A. Bradburn: 17
J. Rabone: 0
L. Coad: 14
B. Meyer: 2
O. Jewell: 3
A. Merrett: 0
H. Dickinson: 0*
