Category Archives: Masters

C&S, LMS, Masters, Match Reports

WEEK TEN: WEDNESDAY 15 – SUNDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2023

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LAST MAN STANDS T20 8-A-SIDE EAST SYDNEY DIVISION TWO ROUND 3                          v GRIZZLIES AT MP 4 , ROBERTSON ROAD, MOORE PARK ON WEDNESDAY 15 NOVEMBER: REPORT BY JAMIE MURTHA

(Ed note: In this game, Jamie Murtha broke his right hand in two places and will be out till after Christmas)

Following a washout last week, we lost the toss and were required to field. Debutant Joseph Taylor started off with a bang taking two wickets in an over, but the opposition steadied and then accelerated after collecting a couple of retirees and looked to score a big total.

Debutant Will Austen chipped in with a good wicket of his own, but it was a tough day for the remaining bowlers. Guy Sebastian of the Grizzlies buried the final nail in with a well struck home run 6 over the bowler’s head to boost the grisly score to 4-236 a run rate of just under 12 per five ball over.

Jonathan Seifman and debutant John Lyons opened and started positively. Seifman was seeing them well and hit some clean strikes and banked himself as a retiree early on with 51* off 20 balls

Will Austen and Rod Shone both kept the scoreboard ticking, Austen finding the boundary often retired with a swift 53* off 27, and Shone worked the ball around falling just short of his half century on 49* off 38 balls

The run rate eventually proved too high, but the team had reason to celebrate the batting performances. A big win is hopefully just around the corner.

The Team was: – Jonathan Seifman 51*; John Lyons 14, Will Austen 53*, Rod Shone 49*, Joseph Taylor 5, Vyshakh Sunny 14*, Jamie Murtha dnb, Will Jacobs (c) and (w) dnb

The Result was: –

Grizzlies: –  4-236 (20 Overs) 

Defeated

C.C.N.S.W.:  2- 190 (20 Overs) (W. Austen 53*;J. Seifman 51*; R. Shone 49*)

By 46 runs

The Bowling was: –  J. Taylor 4-0-43-3; J. Murtha 4-0-44-0; V. Sunny 3-0-24-0; J. Seifman; 3-0-42-0 R. Shone 2-0-19-0; W. Austen 2-0-27-1; J. Lyons 2-0-38-0

 The Fielding was: –

Stumpings: – One to W. Jacobs

Catches: – Two to J. Taylor and one to R. Shone

Run outs: – Nil

Player points (awarded by captain): 3 points to J. Seifman; 2 points to W. Austen; one point to J. Taylor 

Scorecard: https://www.lastmanstands.com/leagues/scorecard/2nd-innings?fixtureid=407373

JACK PACE ROUND 3: CCNSW vs MARRICKVILE CC AT CAMPERDOWN OVAL, CAMPERDOWN     ON SUNDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2023: REPORT BY SOREN HUGHES

With Jamie Murtha nursing a broken finger in his right hand, his role was relegated to scorer on the day and organiser of the covers removal with the brand new trolley. Soren Hughes took over as captain for the day.

The early arrivals at Camperdown were treated to a glorious summer day with the prospect of a good contest, only to be informed that not only did the hessian and mid size covers need to be folded but also the large covers needed to be taken out and folded properly. Unfortunately it then took three attempts to get them folded correctly and once folded and in the sheds, it was time to go out to the centre and lose the toss. In a shock twist, we were sent in to bat and that was our first win for the day.

Gerry O’Shea and Rhys Longbottom  kicked  off boldly with runs and 2 powerfully hooked boundaries  by Rhys before he made the mistake of trusting the bounce at Camperdown and was bowled playing a pull shot for 8. Ryan Lynch was about to take off before playing forward second ball  loosely outside the off stump at a slower ball to be caught behind for a duck. At 2-12, enter Sam Millar whom we hope will become a regular this season. Supported by quick turnover of the strike by Gerry, Sam got himself in and began seeing how much noise the fence posts could make. While he was lucky enough to be dropped a couple of times, he gently hit a couple into the change rooms just before drinks at 2-80 after 17 overs.  After drinks he accelerated past 50 through to 80 in an over including a hit over and onto the change rooms and another into Australia Street. After a partnership of 155 off 27 overs, Gerry decided he needed a break on 33 off 76 balls -all run  with no boundaries and only one 3 and let one slip through the gate. Millar was finally out in the 31st over for 119 off 88 balls with fourteen fours and five 6s with the score at 176. Mick McGrath and Tom Robertson then added 44 off the final four overs. Mick McGrath (30* off 15 balls with four 4s and two 6s) decided to join the CCNSW orchestra trials and belted everything in sight including a six into the sightscreen at the cafe end. Tom Robertson (14* from 8 balls) also chipped in to bring us to 4-220 after 35 overs- a run rate of over 6 per over.

The bowling went well. We opened with the medium fast right arm bowling of Avi Bhandari and Mick McGrath, who both bowled seven overs straight, both with figures of 2 for 20. Rhys Longbottom and Ryan Lynch bowled well to take us into the sheds at drinks 4 for 57 after 17 overs. It was going to be a tough ask for the Marrickville Saggers to score at over 9 per over and hit 164 from the remaining 18 overs.In the face of a lack of intent from the lower order Marrickville  batters, spin was ordered, delivered and the game was closed out without much fuss by the leg spin of  Henry Davis  and Adam Khamis but especially Rhys Longbottom who finished with figures of 3 for 5 from 7 overs. It was nice to get currently into the top 8 of the JPS league table (Ed note some JP results have yet to be posted) with a win (possibly with some bonus points). Just need to continue our good form into the next two games.

The Team was (playing 12): –Gerry O’Shea 33; Rhys Longbottom 8, Ryan Lynch 0, Sam Millar 119. Tom Robertson 15*, Mick McGrath 30*, Mike Pinter dnb, Henry Davis dnb, Soren Hughes (c) dnb, Avi Bhandari dnb, Declan Thomas (w) dnb and  Adam Khamis dnb

The Result was: –

C.C.N.S.W.: – 4-220 (35 Overs) (S. Millar 119)

Defeated

Marrickville CC: – 7-113 (35 Overs) (R. Longbottom 3-5)

By 107 runs

FoWs: – 1-11 (R. Longbottom), 2-12 (R. Lynch), 3-167 (G. O’Shea), 4- 179 (S. Millar)

The Bowling was: – A. Bhandari 7-2-20-2; M. McGrath 7-1-20-2; R. Longbottom 7-3-5-3; R. Lynch 4-0-18-0; H. Davis 7-0-25-0; A. Khamis 3-0-12-0

The Fielding was: –

Stumpings: – One to D. Thomas

Catches: – One to R. Lynch and one to M. McGrath

Run outs: – Nil

Player points (awarded by captain): 3 points to S. Millar; 2 points to M. McGrath; one point to G. O’Shea

Scorecard: https://www.playhq.com/cricket-australia/org/city-and-suburban-cricket-association-1903-inc/summer-202324/jack-pace-shield/game-centre/48ce718a

MASTERS  ROUND 4: CCNSW vs  INGLEBURN CC  AT MEMORIAL PARK  OVAL, CAMPBELLTOWN,   ON SUNDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2023: REPORT BY DAN TURNER

After a longer than usual break between games of 3 weeks, the team gathered in the Deep South West of Sydney enthused from their last outing, a very tight loss to a traditionally powerful team. In last years encounter with Ingleburn, the game was decided on the last ball with CCNSW getting up. So we were ready for a close tight affair, always the best ones.

The wicket looked dry and hard and when captain Dan Turner  called incorrectly and was told to have a bowl, there were a few forced smiles. But the Ingleburn innings got off to a great start for CCNSW with Ben Stanic (1-33) getting the prized scalp of the Ingleburn skipper on the 3rd ball of the innings, attracting a false shot and a high edge to 2nd slip, v/c Andrew Dadswell. This was the beginning of a dominating opening spell of twelve overs by both Stanic and Mick Tarrant (3-16). Both bowlers set about bowling very tight lines on a wicket that wasn’t playing as freely as first thought. Mick secured two wickets in his opening spell, bowling the other opened and trapping the dangerous No.3 lbw. After twelve overs Ingleburn were 3-32 and CCNSW was producing its best fielding display of the season. Matt Johnston at cover and Ashley Perrott at mid-wicket  were a constant threat to the batters. The whole  team was in on it and the fielding was excellent.

A double change in the bowling brought on Matt Johnston (0-14) and David Abreu (1-8) who both extended the CCNSW domination, bowling very well, and at drinks Ingleburn were 3-45, tracking well below a par score. 

After drinks, Abreu lured a lofted shot and Ed Cross took a nice catch to make it 41-4. Andrew Dadswell (3-28) and Ed Cross (1-25) soon came on and continued the theme of good bowling, to some middle order hitters who were keen to get going. Birriwa reserve is a massive ground and with Ingleburn needing to hit out to get a score, there were plenty of spaces. Dadswell got 3 good wickets including the biggest hitter, bowled. Cross chimed in with a bowled as well. Ingleburn was restricted to 9-141, a score that was too small for that ground. A fantastic bowling and fielding performance, one that I am sure sent golden vibes to the Aussies who were later that evening about to provide their  own fantastic bowling and fielding display.

We had a solid start to our innings with Ed Cross and Jason Kenn playing a good cop, bad cop routine. Ed playing slightly more watchful, and ‘Jaydos’ (as Dave Craig christened him last season in a moment of brotherly love), looking to be more forceful. The bowling tactics were obvious, stump to stump, pace off, keep it tight on a slow wicket. Cross went first bowled by the opening bowler with one that clipped the off bail in the fifth over (1-18). Paul Nash joined Kenn and was also watchful, playing a classic innings of’ respect the good, punish the bad’. 

Things were going along well until Jason got one that nipped back. At first glance the ball hit him on the tip of the pad/thighpad, but he was given in what was to be one of four lbw decisions (out of 6 wickets). ‘Jaydos ‘walked off the ground, and let’s just say he wasn’t happy and leave it at that. Dan Turner joined Nash and was gone soon after lbw, and Ash Perrott came out and tried to smack the legspinner, only to get bowled. At 4-58 after 15 overs, things were still okay, but we needed a partnership.

Scott Wells strode to the wicket and after a small period of consolidation, set about changing the tempo of the game with his positive shots and running. Nash departed for a well made 32 (lbw again) and in came Dadswell, who played the Marnus innings while Wells played the aggressor. Wells went for 30 (yes, lbw) with the score on 6-106, but the momentum was with us. Mick Tarrant and Dadswell got us home with 4 overs to spare with the biggest partnership of the game (37) with excellent patience, shot making, and running. 

A good win for Masters on a tough wicket.

The Team was: –  Ed Cross 9, Jason Kenn 20, Paul Nash 32, Dan Turner (c) 4, Ash Perrott 2, Scott Wells (w) 30, Andrew Dadswell 20*, Mike Tarrant 19*, Matt Johnston dnb , Ben Stanic dnb , David Abreu dnb

The Result was: –

Ingleburn CC.: – 9-141 (40 Overs)

Lost to 

C.C.N.S.W.: – 6-143 (35.4 Overs) (P. Nash 32; S. Wells 30)

Lost to

By 4 wickets

FoWs: – 1-18 (E. Cross); 2-36 (J. Kenn); 3-53 (D. Turner); 4-58 (A. Perrott); 5-80 (P. Nash) 6-106 (S. Wells)

The Bowling was: – M. Johnston 6.2-2-14-0; D. Abreu 6-0-18-1, A. Dadswell 6.4-1-28-3; E. Cross 7-1-25-1; B. Stanic 7-0-33-1; M. Tarrant 7-1-16-3

The Fielding was: –

Stumpings: – Nil

Catches: – One catch to each of A. Dadswell, E. Cross, J. Kenn and P Nash

Run outs: – Nil

Player points (awarded by umpire): 3 points to A. Dadswell; 2 points to M. Tarrant; one point to P. Nash

Scorecard: https://www.playhq.com/cricket-australia/org/sydney-masters-cricket-association/masters-summer-202324/masters-foxs/game-centre/1ce48a68

C&S, Masters, Match Reports, Vintage

WEEK SEVEN: THURSDAY 25- SUNDAY 29 OCTOBER 2023

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SOCIAL GAME v VICTORIA BARRACKS XI FOR THE BARRACKERS’ CUP AT KENSINGTON OVAL, KENSINGTON  ON THURSDAY 25 OCTOBER 2020

Cancelled because of rain 

(Editor’s note) It was the Victoria Barracks player who in the 1850s, originally developed what became the SCG; they also claim that their soldier spectators who came from the Barracks and supported them are the originators of the term “to barrack” as used in Australia.  (This is disputed by etymologists who ascribe the term either to Melbourne or Ireland) 

C.C.N.S.W. was invited by Cricket NSW to represent the civilian population of NSW v the Army at the SCG to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the foundation of the SCG. Arising from that game C.C.N.S.W. and the Army jointly bought “The Barrackers’ Cup” which is kept in the Army Museum at Victoria Barracks and occasionally at the request of the C.C.N.S.W. Match Manager brought out on the day

The ball with which C.C.N.S.W. bowled in the150th anniversary game can be seen in the SCG Museum.

To quote from the Army web site

“Victoria Barracks is one of the best-known examples of military architecture in Australia. The Regency-style Victoria Barracks were designed by Lieutenant-Colonel George Barney, who also built Fort Denison and reconstructed Circular Quay. Most of barracks was constructed using locally quarried sandstone between 1841 and 1849. The barracks were occupied by British troops up until 1870 and then taken over by the New South Wales colonial forces. After the Federation in 1901, Victoria Barracks housed the various headquarters responsible for administering and co-coordinating the military. Between 1931 and 1936 the barracks was home to the Royal Military College of Australia and from July 1938 to July 1940 it also housed the Command and Staff School. Today, Victoria Barracks is home to the Headquarters of Forces Command. The Barracks are widely considered to be one of the best examples of a military barracks in the world”

CITY AND SUBURBAN ROUND 3: CCNSW vs OLD ALOYSIANS ON SUNDAY 29 OCTOBER 2023: REPORT BY JAMIE MURTHA

The match was played at Old Aloysians College oval, a typically gold standard batting track prepared primarily for school boys, with an immaculate outfield but  very small boundaries, the ground is not much bigger than a rugby field.

We once again lost the toss and were made to field.

Our opponent had stacked their side with grade players as a resault of being short of regulars, they made a good start and went to drinks at 0-125 after 17 overs.

They looked to accelerate after drinks. Jamie Murtha brought himself on to bowl and managed to grab the first wicket; the catch was taken brilliantly by Mick McGrath at long on, on the run. Soren Hughes bowled well to remove the other set opener, and picked up an additional two wickets courtesy of more great outfielding by debutant Ryan Lynch and Toby Forbes.

Both Mick McGrath and Avi Bhandari picked up a wicket each at the end. We did a great job after drinks to stem the flow of runs and restrict them to 252.

In response, many of our batters once again made starts but were unable to convert those into solid scores. Left hander Ryan Lynch on debut opened the batting and was the stand out performer with 44. He presented the full face of the bat and timed the ball very sweetly. It took a remarkable one handed diving catch by mid off  to dismiss him.

We were unfortunately bundled out for 152 in the 34th over, precisely one hundred runs short of the target.

The Team was: – Ryan Lynch 44, Harry Brooks 5, Toby Forbes 14, Alex Cumming (w) 20 , Jamie Murtha (c) 0, Avinash Bhandari 11,  Mick McGrath 19, Soren Hughes 12, Henry Davis 17* Ming Heng 11 and Jonathan Shaw 0

The Result was: –

Old Aloysians CC: -7-252 (35 Overs)

Defeated

C.C.N.S.W.: – 10-152 (33.1 Overs) (R. Lynch 44)

By 100 runs

FoWs: – 1-14 (H. Bridge); 2-47 (T. Forbes); 3-75 (R. Lynch), 4-75 (J. Murtha); 5-96 (A. Cumming); 6-101 (A. Bhandari); 7-123 (S. Hughes); 8-124 (M. McGrath); 9-144 (M. Heng): 10-152 (J. Shaw).

The Bowling was: – H. Davis 3-0-35-0; M. Heng 3-0-31-0; S. Hughes 6-0-31-3; M. McGrath 7-0-35-1; J. Murtha 7-0-49-2; A. Bhandari 6-0-53-1; J. Shaw 3-0-12-0. 

The Fielding was: –

Stumpings: – Nil

Catches: – 3 to Toby Forbes, two to Mick McGrath and one to A. Cumming (w)

Run outs: – Nil

Player points (awarded by captain): 3 points to S. Hughes; 2 points to R. Lynch; one point to T. Forbes

Scorecard: https://www.playhq.com/cricket-australia/org/city-and-suburban-cricket-association-1903-inc/summer-202324/c-and-s-club-matches/game-centre/ede29375

MASTERS ROUND 3: CCNSW vs OLD IGNATIANS  AT CAMPERDOWN OVAL. CAMPERDOWN ,   ON SUNDAY 29 OCTOBER 2023: REPORT BY PAUL NASH 

Arriving to a stunning day at Camperdown and our captain Dan Turner did the right thing and won the toss; we batted.

The deck looked good, so here we go! Sadly Tom Robertson was adjudged lbw early second ball after hitting a four to square leg first ball. Jason Kenn  and Mike Weaver got down to business, until ‘Weaves’ pulled a ham string  and retired hurt on 29*. Paul Nash joined Jason Kenn and the pair ticked along nicely, as they dispatched bad balls and took singles where they could. The pitch was clearly playing more slowly than we had had expected; forcing the pace was challenging.

At drinks we were 1-84. Kenn soon retired at 40*, and in came the skipper Dan Turner. Bang! Bang! Both Nash (40*) and Turner (42*) retired. Everyone contributed and kept the run rate ticking over and we set them a fair 220 target. 

Old Ignatians had bowled well and had taken the pace off the ball and fielded well but we needed to have turned our twos in threes better.

We didn’t get too excited when one of their openers was bowled second ball …..  as McCaffrey (former Grade player) had different ideas and had serious intent to finish the game before drinks.

They were scoring close to 10 an over, but by drinks we had pulled it back a little, they were 1-127.

They too had three retired not out in the shed (like us), so not panicking we kept to the plan and pinned back the run rate with the incoming new batters. Stand out in the field was wicketkeeper Ash Perrott (usually a keeper) patrolling the boundary with pace and strong arm returns, not bad for an old bugger!

Then things really got interesting! Their gun opener McCaffrey left the game early so was timed out!  It was our Jason Kenn who came into the attack to stem the flow and took maybe his club best bowling figures of 4-19

At the 35 over mark with 5 overs to go, the scores of both teams were practically the same …… now 11 required off 3 overs and 2 wickets needed.. We took them to the last over and they scraped home by one wicket.

A terrific game with a lot of positives to take out from this loss. Take the tough chances, run harder, and never give up.

The Team was (playing 12): – Tom Robertson 4, Mike Weaver 29* ret injured, Jason Kenn 40*, Paul Nash 40*, Dan Turner 42*, Scott Wells 25, Ash Perrott 2, Jose Poothokaren 8*, Michael Tarrant 16*, David Craig dnb, David Abreu dnb and Ben Stanic dnb

The Result was: –

C.C.N.S.W.: – 3-219 (40 Overs) (D. Turner 42*; J. Kenn 40*; P. Nash 40*)

Lost to

Old Ignatians: – 9-223 (39.3 Overs) (J. Kenn 4-20)

By one wicket

FoWs: –1-9 (T. Robertson); 2-187 (A. Perrott); 3-196 (S. Wells).

The Bowling was: – B. Stanic 5.3-0-49-1; D. Craig 9-1-37-1; D. Abreu 6-0-36-0, J. Poothokaren 4-0-22-0; J. Kenn 6-1-20-4; M. Tarrant 9-0-59-2

The Fielding was: –

Stumpings: – Nil

Catches: – One catch to T. Robertson and one to M. Tarrant.

Run outs: – Nil

Player points (awarded by umpire): 3 points to J. Kenn; 2 points to D. Turner; one point to P. Nash

Scorecard: https://www.playhq.com/cricket-australia/org/sydney-masters-cricket-association/masters-summer-202324/masters-foxs/game-centre/283b2077

VINTAGE ROUND 2: CCNSW vs CASTLE HILL  AT BEROWRA PVAL OVAL , BEROWRA  ON SUNDAY 29 OCTOBER 2023: REPORT BY GREG BROOKS.

The over 60s CCNSW side stamped their seniors’ travel cards and headed north to the picturesque suburb of Berowra. This was a late change as the hosts usual ground at Kenthurst was unavailable due to repairs. The Berowra Oval is in very good condition and the wicket hard with a nice covering of grass. David Glen was the only player with memories of the ground but admitted they were vague as he was channeling Under 10s rugby!

Castle Hill RSL won the toss and sent us in. Gerry O’Shea and Frank Baliotis got us off to a good start putting on 41 before Baliotis was adjudged lbw for a well made 25. O’Shea (30* ret) kept accumulating running many threes to all parts of the large ground. Sittampalam Ragavan (“Raga”) (7) and Mick McCormick (4) both came and went looking to accelerate the run rate. The Prez’ (your writer) slogged a few and managed to retire with 31^ while David Glen (13) formed a partnership with Garry James who also found the wicket to his liking adding 30* ret in quick time. Joe Scarcella (30* ret) and Ashok Peiris (ret out  22), our guest wicket keeper while John Finuncane is smoking cigars and drinking rum in Cuba and Mexico, kept the score rolling along as we reached 200 in the 37th over. Our skipper Stuart Ridge (20*)  and debutant Emmanuel Mouglalis (2*)  took us to 5-230 at the completion of our 40 overs.

A large target to chase and Castle Hill got off to a wobbly start and never really recovered. Stusrt Ridge did the early damage withtwowickets in his first four overs while Greg Brooks picked up one from the other end. Garry James added two more after replacing Brooks at the southern end to have the hosts reeling at 5-21.Add in a smart run out where Ashok threw to the bowler’s end following a great throw from the outfield by David Glen and the game was just about done. Joe Scarcella, Mick McCormick and David Glen all bowled well during a period where the remaining batters chose to defend rather than attack. ‘Raga’ then came on and assisted Ridge in cleaning up the tail. Castle Hill all out for 72 in the 37th over.

We enjoyed a drink and some banter with our hosts and we all agreed that the venue was a great spot for a game of Vintage cricket.

We are backing up next week when we host Lindfield at Camperdown. This will be a much sterner test of our early season form and we are all looking forward to the challenge!

The Team was: – Frank Baliotis 25, Gerard O’Shea 30*, Sittampalam Ragavan 7, Greg Brooks 31*, Mick McCormick 4, David Glen 13, Garry James 30*, Joe Scarcella 30*, Ashok Peiris (w) ret out 22, Stuart Ridge (c) 20*, Emmanuel Mouglalis 2*

The Result was: –

C.C.N.S.W.: – 5-230 (40 Overs) (G. Brooks 31*; G. James 30*; G. O’Shea 30*; J. Scarcella 30*)

Defeated

Castle Hill: – 10-72 (36.4 Overs) (S. Ridge 4-6)

By 158 runs

FoWs: – 1-41 (F. Baliotis); 2-62 (S. Ragavan); 3-97 (M. McCormick); 4-145 (D. Glen); 5-201 (A. Peiris).

The Bowling was: – G. Brooks 5-2-7-1; D. Glen 3-0-5-0; G. James 7-1-14-2; M. McCormick 4-2-10-0 ; S. Ragavan 6-3-3-2; S. Ridge 5.4-3-6-4; J. Scarcella 6-1-18-0

The Fielding was: –

Stumpings: – Nil

Catches: – 2 to A. Peiris (w); one to each of F. Baliotis and G. Brooks

Run outs: – 2: One to D. Glen and one to G. James

Player points (awarded by umpire): 3 points to S. Ridge; 2 points to G. James; one point to S. Ragavan

Scorecard: https://www.playhq.com/cricket-australia/org/sydney-masters-cricket-association/vintage-summer-202324/vintage/game-centre/5ff84825

C&S, Masters, Match Reports

WEEK FIVE: SUNDAY 15 OCTOBER 2023

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CITY AND SUBURBAN  ROUND 2: CCNSW vs COLLEAGUES   AT CAMPERDOWN OVAL, CAMPERDOWN  ON SUNDAY 15 OCTOBER 2023: REPORT BY JAMIE MURTHA

Our first official home game got off to a great start with Jamie Murtha winning the toss and deciding to bat. Colleagues CC struck with a wicket in the first over, Jamie and Scott Williams got us back on track with a solid 48 run partnership before Jamie holed out to deep mid-wicket. Scott looked in good form, hitting back to back boundaries on a couple of occasions before being adjudged lbw.

A middle order collapse saw us in a lot of strife, but Henry Davis and debutant Kieren Purnell were able to dig in and rebuild. The pair worked the ball around, but Henry unfortunately strangled a ball down the leg side which sparked another collapse.

Ming Heng wacked a few nice fours to boost our score, but in the end we were all out for 134 with 8 overs remaining, (Ed note: This was a 40 over p. side game) short of our 160+ target. Our opposition fielded very well, preventing boundaries and building pressure, we had a few good partnerships starting, but couldn’t capitalise on those.

We took a break for tea and the CCNSW team put on a great spread, the opposition seemed quite surprised by it and grateful. John Shaw’s beef patties went down nice and Ming went all in with hot dogs in a slow cooker.

Needing 135 to win and having somewhere to be, Colleagues CC came out firing, they got off to a fast start. Jon Shaw found his line and length from his third over at the Rotunda end, he had the ball jagging away from the right handers and picked up two crucial wickets.

Despite the wickets, our opposition kept coming at us hard, determined to finish the game and head to the pub.  This attacking style kept us in the game, Henry Davis’ leggies beat the outside edge twice giving Declan Thomas stumping opportunities, both of which he made look easy.

Adam Khamis with his own leggies targeted the stumps and took two wickets of his own.

We fielded well on the day, despite a few rough patches within the infield, and the guys never have up – we tried to take wickets right down to the last ball but unfortunately the opposition were able to chase down our total in the 26th over with four wickets in hand.

Still plenty of positives to take away from the game, with a few more runs on the board and our strong bowling attack could have won it for us on the day.

Now we look ahead to JPS round 1 against the Reg Bartley XI next Sunday 22nd October.

The Team was: – Gerard O’Shea 1, Jamie Murtha (c) 10, Scott Williams 37, Alex Cumming 10, Declan Thomas (w) 4, Henry Davis 24, Len Volkov 0, Kieren Purnell 16, Ming Heng 17, Jonathan  Shaw 1 Adam Khamis 2* 

The Result was: –

C.C.N.S.W.: – 10-134 (31.2 Overs) (S. Williams 37)

Lost to

Colleagues: – 6-141 (25.1 Overs)

By 4 wickets

FoWs: – 1-2 (G. O’Shea); 2-49 (J. Murtha); 3-51 (S. Williams); 4-64 (A. Cumming); 5-67 (D. Thomas); 6-71 (L. Volkov); 7-105 (H. Davis); 8-127 (M. Heng); 9-131 (J. Shaw);10-134 (K. Purnell).

The Bowling was: – J. Shaw 5-1-21-2; M. Heng 4-0-22-0; A. Khamis 6.1-1-28-2, H. Davis 4-0-33-2; S. Williams 3-0-15-0; K. Purnell 3-1-19-0

The Fielding was: –

Stumpings: – 2 to D. Thomas

Catches: – One to G. O’Shea

Run outs: – Nil

Player points (awarded by captain): 3 points to H. Davis; 2 points to J. Shaw; one point to A. Khamis

Scorecard: https://www.playhq.com/cricket-australia/org/city-and-suburban-cricket-association-1903-inc/summer-202324/c-and-s-club-matches/game-centre/36f5fc90

MASTERS ROUND 2: CCNSW vs ROSEVILLE  AT TURRAMURRA MEMORIAL PARK, TURRAMURRA,   ON SUNDAY 15 OCTOBER 2023: REPORT BY BEN STANIC

Round 2 for the 2023-2024 season saw the CCNSW Masters team venture out to Turramurra to take on a strong Roseville team. Captain Dan Turner on seeing a questionable pitch on arrival elected to bowl first after successfully winning the toss in the hope that the pitch could provide some assistance to the bowlers.

From the outset it was clear the pitch would play fine, and the Roseville batsmen were keen to play aggressively and not let the CCNSW attack settle into a groove. Despite runs flowing freely, CCNSW were able to get an early breakthrough in the third over when one of the Roseville openers played a false shot with the ball popping up to short mid-wicket where for the second match running Jose Poothokaren made good ground to take a tricky catch to earn our first wicket.

From that point on however, the Roseville batsmen were well on top with their other opener as well as batsmen 3 and 4 retiring and taking their team to an imposing 1-123 after 20 overs at drinks. Things were looking a little dire at drinks with a score in the 300s even a possibility the way the Roseville batsmen were striking the ball. 

Thankfully, Paul Nash and Jose Poothokaren were able to pick up a middle order wicket each and Ben Stanic was able to bowl the number 9 late in the innings to stem the flow of runs a little, but not before another of the Roseville middle order (their 4th for the innings) managed to get to retirement and take their total to 4-260 after their allotted 40 overs. CCNSW were happy to get out of the sun and off a challenging Turramurra outfield which provided some awkward fielding moments including the need to avoid swarms of insects (that appeared to be bees) constantly flying into us in the last 5 to 10 overs of the Roseville innings!

In the innings break, the Roseville team provided barbecued sausage sandwiches for all to enjoy, perhaps hoping this would cause the CCNSW batsmen to be a little sluggish on the return to play. CCNSW Masters knew we had to bat well to chase down the challenging total of 261 and perhaps the barbecue sausages played their part, as it was noticeable that our innings consisted of a lot of boundaries and less running between the wickets when compared to other games we have been involved in.

At the start of the innings Tom Robertson  and Jason Kenn got us off to a good start, approaching things in the same attacking manner that the Roseville batsmen did, before the Roseville opening bowler settled into his rhythm and managed to sneak one through Jason’s defences to take their first wicket in the 5th over. Following that early setback, Paul Nash, Andrew Dadswell and Scott Wells all came and went relatively quickly and all for the identical score of 4 to leave CCNSW at the precarious position of 4-86 after 17 overs.

However, despite the wickets falling at the other end, Tom kept going with his usual swashbuckling style, never letting the Roseville bowlers dictate terms to him and quickly moved to 41* and a well- earned retirement. This left Dan and Jose to form a great partnership which took us to 4-110 at drinks and onto 133 in the 24th over before Dan was unfortunately undone for a well-made 31 whilst trying to keep the run rate ticking over.

Soon after, Jose fell agonisingly short of his own retirement milestone on 37 when going for one last hefty blow he was unfortunately bowled. After that, debutant Chinmay Trivedi, Ben Stanic and David Abreu all came and went quickly, all caught off the Roseville spinner, whilst trying to keep the runs flowing. This brought Tom back to the crease to join Mick Tarrant who had been watching the carnage unfold from the non-striker’s end. Mick and Tom then went on to push our score from 164 to 201 with a great last wicket partnership before Tom was ultimately dismissed on 62, caught on the straight boundary looking to keep our faint hopes of an unlikely victory alive, leaving Micky stranded on a quality 22*.

Our innings was also highlighted by a local kid deciding that running through a live cricket match to get to the other side of Turramurra oval was the quickest way to get to the other side, despite the obvious dangers of getting hit by a leather cricket ball. This was complimented by another Turramurra local (perhaps the kid’s mum) attempting to stroll out into the outfield to commence her regular Sunday afternoon laps despite the live game of cricket going on at the time. She at least provided some comic relief when informed she could not enter the oval while a live cricket game was in play for her own safety, when she with a straight face responded that the oval was a public place and clearly the cricket game had to end immediately so that her and other residents could use the oval. Thankfully, Tom was around and able to use his extensive diplomatic skills and inform the lady that the game would not be finished for quite some time, and she could run around the outside of the oval and call the local council if she was not happy with the outcome. The whole episode making us grateful for the fact that at Camperdown we simply need to shoo away several families having picnics on the oval before we start our home games! 

But back to the cricket; overall, this game was a reminder that we are in Division 1 of the Masters competition this season and there will be no easy matches as we will be facing quality opposition every match. Although it was a tough day out for the bowling attack with us only managing to snare 4 Roseville wickets and leaking 260 runs, it was encouraging that our batting line up was able to score over 200 runs in the chase (spearheaded by a great innings from Tom). 

We will no doubt be looking forward to a rematch with Roseville next season to attempt to avenge this defeat, especially given at the end of the match they decided to stay in their own dressing room with their own beers completely avoiding and ignoring the CCNSW Masters team much to the annoyance of captain Dan Turner and our team. Pretty poor form from them in our view given the game was played in highly respectful spirit without any conflict, disputes, or heckling.

The Team was: – Jason Kenn 8, Tom Robertson 62, Paul Nash 4, Andrew Dadswell 4, Scott Wells (w) 4, Dan Turner 31, Jose Poothokaren 37, Mick Tarrant 22*, Chinmay Trivedi 4, Ben Stanic 0 , David Abreu 2,  

The Result was: –

Roseville CC.: – 4-260 (40 Overs) 

Defeated 

C.C.N.S.W.: – 10-201 (37.5 Overs) (T. Robertson 62)

By 59 runs

FoWs: – 1-18 (J. Kenn); 2-39 (P. Nash); 3-45 (A. Dadswell); 4-86 (S. Wells); 5-133 (D. Turner); 6-148 (J. Poothokaren); 7-158 (C. Trivedi); 8-158 (B. Stanic); 9-164 (D. Abreu); 10-201 T. Robertson.

The Bowling was: – B. Stanic 7-0-44-2; A. Dadswell 5-0-27-0; M. Tarrant 8-0-43-0; D. Abreu 4-0-26-0; C. Travedi 1-0-8-0; J. Poothokaren; 9-0-61-1 P. Nash 4-0-28-1; J. Kenn 2-0-14-0

The Fielding was: –

Stumpings: – Nil

Catches: – One each to J. Poothokaren and D. Turner

Run outs: – Nil

Player points (awarded by umpire): 3 points to T. Robertson; 2 points to M. Tarrant; one point to J. Poothokaren

Scorecard: https://www.playhq.com/cricket-australia/org/sydney-masters-cricket-association/masters-summer-202324/masters-foxs/game-centre/ae2a7c81

C&S, Masters, Match Reports

WEEK THREE: SUNDAY 1 OCTOBER 2023

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SOCIAL GAME: CCNSW C&S vs CCNSW MASTERS AT CAMPERDOWN OVAL, CAMPERDOWN  ON SUNDAY 1 OCTOBER 2023: REPORT BY DAVID CRAIG 

THE C&S TEAM XII AT CAMPERDOWN V MASTERS XII ON SUNDAY OCTOBER 1
Back Row: Adam Khamis, Harry Bridge, Henry Davis, Johnathan Shaw, Matt Leong, Soren Hughes Alex Cumming (w)
Front Row: Tom Robertson, Jamie Murtha (c), Toby Forbes ’ Ming Heng
THE MASTERS XII AT CAMPERDOWN V C&S XII ON SUNDAY OCTOBER 1
Back Row: Ben Stanic, Stuart Ridge, Greg Brooks, David Craig, Mick Tarrant, Mike Weaver
Front Row: Scott Wells, Dan Turner (c), Ed Cross, Jason Kenn
Absent: Jose Poothokaren, Ashley Perrot

The “annual” CCNSW C&S v Masters clash for the President’s Cup was finally on again, after many frustrating years of cancellations due to rain and Covid! The undefeated C&S team looked stacked with talent and were heavily favoured by the punters on the day. For this eagerly awaited clash, Camperdown Oval presented itself in the best early season condition in living memory, while Sydney turned on the hottest Oct 1st in recorded history (36° C), and the surrounding trees turned the air gold with a pollen count that threatened to overwhelm the nearby RPAH respiratory unit. 

Masters captain Dan Turner called correctly and elected to bat on a typical Camperdown wicket, not a lot of pace or bounce but true enough to bat on, especially if you GET FORWARD. Mike Weaver took strike to Shaw, and was circumspect early, while at the other end Ed Cross immediately went on the attack against Ming Heng, racing to 6 off 3 before top edging a pull shot to Matt Leong at mid-wicket, 1-6. Jason Kenn joined Weaver in a productive partnership, with boundaries flowing freely. One particularly brutal ‘Jaydos’ pull shot bounced over the pickets, across the road and down the drain, allowing Jamie Murtha to substitute a new ball of uncertain providence (Ed Note; A “Kangarucci’ being promoted in the C&SCA). Would there be an Ashes style controversy with the new pill hooping all over the place? Not really… 

Kenn moved to within a boundary of retirement before being deceived by Henry Davis, practicing the dark arts of wrist spin and eliciting the stumping by club newcomer Alex Cumming; the game well poised at 2-70 after 12.2. Scott Wells joined Weaver for a brief but busy stay, while Murtha rotated his leg spinners to good effect from the Australia Street end. First Wells, then Turner fell to Khamis, the latter bowled by that infamous wrong-un (4-113 from 21 overs). Weaver moved steadily to retirement at 41*, leaving the batting duties to Ash Perrott and the Masters all-rounders. Greg Brooks and Jose Poothokaren were typically aggressive, but perished to the accurate Soren Hughes, leaving the game in the balance at 6-143, with 14 overs to be bowled.

At this point, Perrott and Mike Tarrant took over, with a partnership that eventually yielded 98 runs, two retirements, some lovely cover-drives from Ash, four consecutive boundaries from Tarrant off Jon Shaw, a trademark David Craig reverse swivel-pull and a bunch of the usual hitting, missing, scampering and sledging before a couple of wickets in consecutive balls to Leong in the final over left the Masters team with a more than useful 8-245 off 40 overs.

“Par here is 300” barked Tom  Robertson at the break, before heading out to open with Gerry O’Shea in yet another reboot of the Tom and Gerry show. Ben Stanic opened to O’Shea from the Australia street end, while in a surprise move designed to unsettle Tom Robertson, the leg spinner Craig took the new ball from the Mallett St end. Always keen to spoil the opposition’s plans, Robertson left immediately, bowled by Stanic. To be fair, it was an absolute peach, pitching leg and hitting off at pace. 

Harry Bridge strode to the wicket, claiming to have not held a stick in six months. He rustily creamed a cover drive for four from his first ball and looked in a dangerous mood as he smoked Stuart Ridge down the ground for 4 and 6 off consecutive deliveries. However, the double bowling change worked a treat, with Tarrant removing the steady O’Shea and Ridge extracting revenge with a lovely in-swinger bowling Bridge just as he threatened to take the game by the scruff of the neck. A wonderful spell from Tarrant choked off the runs, and yielded two more wickets, with both Toby Forbes and Jamie Murtha bowled with the score on 61.

Now 5 wickets down, and needing more than 8 an over, C&S looked out of the contest, but debutant  Alex Cumming and Soren Hughes had other ideas. Some lusty hitting produced a run-a-ball partnership of 72. With Cumming retiring at 40*, the responsibility fell to Soren and the C&S bowling unit, but the scoreboard pressure proved too much. The introduction of Jason Kenn to the attack saw the timbers regularly rattled, with Matt Leong the first to go at 6-133. Ridge returned at the other end to knock over Hughes’ stumps, while Henry Davis and Adam Khamis lined up to get castled by Kenn. The game was ended by a spectacular Tarrant catch, first walking in and then running and tumbling backwards to dismiss Ming Heng and give Ben Stanic a well-deserved second wicket, all out for 151 in the 35th. 

With the CCNSW Masters succeeding in wresting the trophy from C&S from the first time in HISTORY, celebrations were reminiscent of the Australia II America’s Cup triumph, and once again no self-respecting boss could have sacked anyone for not turning up to work on Monday. (Especially Being a Public Holiday and all.)

The Teams were: – 

Masters XII: – Mike Weaver 44*, Ed Cross 6, Jason Kenn 37, Scott Wells (w) 5, Dan Turner (c) 12, Ashley Perrott 41*, Greg Brooks 6, Jose Poothokaren 10, Mike Tarrant 40* , David Craig 23, Stuart Ridge 2*, Ben Stanic  0

C&S XII: – Tom Robertson 1; Gerry O’Shea 18; Harry Bridge 25, Toby Forbes 7, Alex Cummings (w) 40*, James Murtha 0, Soren Hughes 33, Matt Leong 4, Henry Davis 1, Adam Khamis 5. Ming Heng 10, Jonathan Shaw 0*

The Result was: –

C.C.N.S.W. Masters XII: 8-245 (40 Overs) (M. Weaver 49*; A. Perrott 43*; M. Tarrant 40*)

Defeated

C.C.N.S.W. C&S XII:  10-151 (34.1 Overs) (A. Cumming 40*)

By 94 runs

Masters FoWs: – 1-26 (E. Cross), 2-70 (J. Kenn), 3-80 (S. Wells), 4- 113 (D. Turner), 5-129 (G. Brooks), 6-143 (J. Poothokaren), 7-241 (D. Craig) 8-245 (B. Stanic) 

C&S FoWs: – 1-5 (T. Robertson), 2- 45 (G. O’Shea), 3-45 (H. Bridge), 4-61 (T. Forbes), 5- 61(J. Murtha), 6-133(M. Leong), 7-135 (S. Hughes) 8-135 (H. Davis) 9- 151 (A. Khamis), 10-151 (M. Heng )

The Masters Bowling was:  B. Stanic 5.1-0-21-2; D. Craig 4-1-13-0; M. Tarrant 5-1-8-3; S. Ridge 7-1-28-2; E. Cross 5-0-32-0; J. Poothokaren 2-0-8-0; A. Perrott 1-0-11-0; G. Brooks 2-1-11-0; J. Kenn 3-0-14-3

The C&S Bowling was: J. Shaw 6-1-37-0; M. Heng 5-0-35-1; A. Khamis 6-1-23-2; H. Davis 8-1-44-1; M. Leong 5-0-35-2; S. Hughes 3-0-18-2; T. Forbes 4-0-25-0; J. Murtha 3-0-22-0

The Masters Fielding was: –

Stumpings: – Nil

Catches: – One to M. Tarrant

Run outs: – Nil

The C&S Fielding was: –

Stumpings: – One to A. Cumming

Catches: – One each to M. Leong and  S. Hughes

Run outs: – Nil

Victorious Masters skipper Dan Turner receiving the cup from the President
Masters, Match Reports, Vintage

WEEK TWO: SUNDAY 24 SEPTEMBER 2023

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MASTERS ROUND 1 v LINDFIELD AT LINDFIELD OVAL TRYON WAY ON SUNDAY 24 SEPTEMBER 2023: REPORT BY MIKE WEAVER 

‘Next man up’ mentality is definitely part of the CCNSW Masters ‘DNA’ this season. When late withdrawals due to injury or other unforeseen events beset a team, whoever comes in must ‘step up to the plate’ to ‘do a job’. There can be no excuses while ever the Blues field a full team of 12 this summer. 

All this rhetoric seems very much justified. As CCNSW travelled to a far off field with a foreign pitch last Sunday at the Soldier’s Memorial Park on the North Shore. And then walked away in the late afternoon having met all challenges, perceived and real, recording a comfortable victory, in terms of the scorebook data. The plucky and very sporting home side did not get to experience the best of the conditions, and the luck, after stand-in skipper Andrew ‘Tex’ Dadswell correctly sent Lindfield in to face the music. The weather to start the day was cool and cloudy. 

The two or three loose balls delivered in the first few overs were put away well by the Lindfield openers, who otherwise struggled to get runs ticking over against the very capable Ben Stanic and Mick Tarrant. Mick was thanking Jose Poothokaren for the first wicket of the day, judging a very high ‘skier’ nicely, for a fine catch at backward square leg off the Lindfield No 2 batter. Lindfield had no luck in the two quick wickets that followed. The Lindfield first drop tore his calf on just his second ball faced. He duly retired hurt on naught and took no further part in the match. Then Ben produced a brute of a ball which reared off a length at Lindfield’s gun bat, David Kelly. The ball deflected from the bat, which was protecting the neck, and lobbed to Matt Johnson in the gully. Matt gleefully accepted the opportunity for the first of three catches he was to take during the day. Arguably Lindfield’s most highly rated batter gone for a golden duck. 

To make things much worse for Lindfield, in the next over Mick knocked the other opener’s castle down, then followed up next ball to dismantle the woodwork again, leaving him on a hat trick and Lindfield rocking at 5-28. No bad luck was involved here. Six batters were now sitting on the sideline, though, their lot done for the day. 

The hat trick ball survived, Lindfield saw off Mick and Ben, each spent after six over spells. Dave Abreu and Andrew Dadswell took over as Lindfield desperately sought to get a partnership going. Both bowlers kept up the pressure, although notably at least three more catching chances were missed. 

Eventually the score scrambled to 51 before Dave cut one back to trap Mandhir Marang lbw, the batter’s intentions not bearing much fruit for his team. And ‘Tex’ picked up a deserved wicket, Lindfield’s Eldon Wessels out caught, again by the reliable Jose at square leg. 7-68.

As the sun came out, a fighting partnership between Lindfield’s Paul Sproules and his mate ‘Benny’ ensued. Further bowling changes (Jose Poothokaren  and Matt Johnston) were instigated and CCNSW never let up on their overall effort. Although at one stage the ‘lefty’ Sproules looked to be well on top, with his partner defending stoutly in support. It had become noticeable that the batting surface was very indifferent in pace and bounce, difficult to become accustomed to, even after considerable time spent at the crease. Yet Sproules fought hard and batted intelligently. He looked for gaps while constantly encouraging his batting ally, striking three or four handsome drives to the fence.  

Just when it looked like Sproules would reach mandatory retirement , the stand in CCNSW skipper, perhaps given the tip from his injured off field captain, Dan Turner, made the right final switch of the attack. ‘Next man up’, Ed Cross, operating across the left hander from the northern end, enticed a catch to Matt Johnston at gully and then knocked over the no. 11 in quick time. Lindfield’s innings wrapped up – all out for116 (with one retired hurt), in just 34 overs. 

So CCNSW had a small target and the advantage of being able to ‘go to school’ on how the pitch had played and how it would play. As everyone thought, runs were hard to come by from the outset for Tom Robertson and Ed Cross. Both batters’ natural attacking instincts were curbed by the irregularities of the pitch which required considerable watchfulness. The sharp, accurate opening bowling of Matt Daly from Lindfield, supported by ‘off the pace bowling from Sproules, proved testing. An opening stand of 24 runs, solid on an ‘up and down’ track. 

Tom was adjudged to be caught at the wicket to bring ‘Next Man Up no.3’ Mike Weaver into the game for CCNSW. After surviving a confident shout for lbw, (which was a clear inside edge into the pads), ‘Weaves’  set about not giving anyone else much of a chance. ‘Anyone else’ being inclusive of the umpire, the Lindfield players and the next up batters in his team. 

Mike and Ed scrapped together another 18 runs before Ed was caught at mid on for a handy 27 runs. This saw the entrance of the ‘consummate English club professional’ Paul Nash. For CCNSW, this proved to effectively ‘all she wrote’ in terms of deciding the match outcome. 

Paul showed all his class and experience to thump the spin bowling to the fence and using very soft hands against the medium pacers to nudge into gaps. He and ‘Weaves’ ran very well between wickets to take all runs on offer. As the Lindfield effort began to tire, Mike was good enough to put most of the loose balls away safely and firmly to the boundary. 

A number of late sundries helped the partnership to reach 75 unbeaten, with four wides marking the end of the match. CCNSW were able to get the required runs just within 28 overs and secure maximum winning bonus points in doing so. 

A good start to the season and a well deserved win for Cricketers’ Club, although if wise, the players will recognise that it was a good toss to win and that Lindfield maybe could have posted more runs, given their bad luck. And at the same time, CCNSW will know that some good chances were missed in the field. 

The team will be looking at this area for improvement, in their upcoming intra club ‘grudge’ match v C and S, on Sunday 1st October at Camperdown Park. And for those coming back in to the side, they must again provide a ‘next man up’ mentality

The Team was (playing 12): – Ed Cross 27; Tom Robertson 6, Mike Weaver 39*, Paul Nash 24*, Jason Kenn dnb, Andrew Dadswell (c) dnb, Ash Perrott (w) dnb, Matt Johnston dnb, Michael Tarrant dnb, Jose Poothokaren dnb, Ben Stanic dnb and D. Abreu dnb

The Result was: –

Lindfield: – 10-116 (34.4 Overs) (M. Tarrant 3-19)

Lost to

C.C.N.S.W.: – 2-117 (27.3 Overs) (M. Weaver 39*)

By 8 wicket

FoW: – 1-24 (T. Robertson); 2-42 (E. Cross).

The Bowling was: – B. Stanic 6-2-13-2; M. Tarrant 6-1-19-3; D. Abreu 6-0-23-1; A. Dadswell 6-2-13-1, J. Poothokaren 3-0-11-0; M. Johnston 5-0-19-0; E. Cross 2.4-0-7-2, 

The Fielding was: –

Stumpings: – Nil

Catches: – 3 catches to M. Johnston; 2 catches to J. Poothokaren; one to A. Perrott (w);

Run outs: – Nil

Player points (awarded by umpire): – 3 points to M Tarrant; 2 points to B. Stanic ; one point to M. WeaverScorecard: https://www.playhq.com/cricket-australia/org/sydney-masters-cricket-association/masters-summer-202324/masters-foxs/game-centre/002c7d71

VINTAGE ROUND 1 v CENTRAL COAST AT CAMPERDOWN OVAL, CAMPERDOWN ON SUNDAY 24 SEPTEMBER 2023: REPORT BY MICK McCORMICK 

Vintage squad for 2023-24 Season before  game vs Central Coast at Camperdown
Back row:  David Glen, Joe Scarcella, Paul Georgiadis, Ajoy Roy, Greg Brooks, Garry James, Stuart Ridge (c), Mick McCormick, Gerry O’Shea, Emmanuel Mouglalis
Front row: Sittampalam Ragavan, John Finucane (w), Frank, Baliotis, Peter Rolls (v/c), Daniel Pellen

The first surprise of the day came with the early season appearance of Camperdown Oval itself. Rather than an emaciated beach look, turf was actually a significant proportion of the surface. After clearing the various frisbee games from the field, Stuart Ridge in his first outing as Vintage captain lost the toss and saw CCNSW being sent into bat on the pitch closest to the pavilion. 

The game was set to be a battle between the last two season’s premier sides that also had  been an epic decider in the last game of last season that has been variously described as “Brookstopia”.

The Central Coast opening pair was accurate on the slow and low wicket. Peter Rolls looked comfortable in the opening role, (pun intended) and Gerry O’Shea played some well-timed shots to keep the bowlers at bay. A trifecta of lbws however transformed the steady opening, firstly Rollsey hit on the roll (pun intended) was fired quicker than a Qantas baggage handler.

Gerry O’Shea was lucky to survive a run out with ‘Joe the cameraman’, Scarcella, having his lenses obscured by the posterior positioning of the wicketkeeper. That luck was a mere splatter as Gerry was then adjudged lbw with a suspect splinter of timber seemingly involved.  Daniel Pellen became the Central Coast left hander’s 3rd lbw victim. Frank Baliotis also went early leaving the lineup struggling at 4 for 24.

Greg Brooks (15) immediately released a swathe of clean hitting to the boundary. Mick McCormick (22) took advantage of the close boundary to dispatch the loose balls. The partnership built well taking the score to 62 until impatience simmered to the surface with the seemingly innocuous ‘dobbly do littles’ getting under Greg’s bat and then getting through a patient absent swipe from Mick. 6 for 64.

John Finucane (23) was scratchier than a hen with tinea early on, but settled to play a vital innings with Sittampalam Ragavan (“Raga”) (13) that took the score to 100. Garry James (19), after educating the 93-year-old mother of the opposition captain about what really goes on in an obstetrician’s practice (she was within earshot), entered the field and blazed with the bat in his usual fashion putting an invaluable partnership together.

A solid contribution from ‘Joe the cameraman’ (14) resulted in a respectable score of 8-140.

During the tea break it was feared the 93-year-old mother would refuse to allow Garry James her expertly crafted brownies and he would have to eat a whole package of donuts instead. The latter can be confirmed…enquires continue as to his access to the brownies.

On taking the field CCNSW was apprehensive following the close encounter at the end of last season. 

Stuart Ridge immediately settled into his metronome rhythm and troubled the openers. He got a ball to lift which caught the gloves of the opener travelling directly to the gates of Brookstopia which normally would have efficiently ensnared its victim, however a rare mistake in the kingdom saw the ball hit the turf. 

At the other end Raga settled into stride with accurate, skidding away swingers, making it difficult for the openers to score.

It wasn’t until the 5th over that a dart like direct hit from Paul Georgardis ran the opener out. There was a sigh of relief in the realm of Brookstopia. Paul continued to cover the ground like a Jack Russell on heat, saving many runs.

It was the spark that lit the flame as wickets started to tumble. Raga backed up catching an edge which was well caught by wicket keeper John Finucane low down to his right.  Stu Ridge bowled the other opener then next ball, cartwheeling the stumps of the incoming batsman.  

Frank Baliotis was almost as excited as he was visiting the sphinx in the off season. Unfortunately, the hatt rick did not materialise. Central Coast were in a pickle at 4 wickets for 7 runs. Jonny Finucane threw chilli peppers onto the wound by innocently asking Central Coast to update the scoreboard not believing the score was 4 for 7. Somewhat bewildered they updated the scoreboard to read 4 for 8.

Raga picked up another wicket, well caught at mid-off by Joe the cameraman. 5 for 14. 

Stuart Ridge picked up a third wicket when Frank Baliotis moved with Fred Astaire like feet to take the catch at cover, 6 for 19.

Geoff Patterson from Central Coast was the only one mounting any resistance until a shortish ball from Garry James was unceremoniously smashed at knee height to Gerry O’Shea at mid-wicket who took a superb catch. 7 for 29.

Garry James picked up another wicket with a neat stumping by John Finucane. 8 for 32.

Central Coast sank further into the mire as their indoor cricket recruit pulled a calf muscle negotiating the extra meterage of the pitch. 

The final pairing used the opportunity for batting practice and took the score to 50 before the King of Brookstopia fired one at the pads of the batsmen, brutally banishing him from the dominion. 

Mick McCormick picked up the final wicket when the left hander dragged the ball onto the stumps. All out for 58.

A very satisfying first win for the new Vintage captain with all contributing.

The Team was (playing 12): – Peter Rolls 11, Gerry O’Shea 10, Daniel Pellen 1, Frank Baliotis 1, Greg Brooks 15, Mick McCormick 22, John Finucane (w) 23 , Sittampalam Ragavan 13, Joe Scarcella 14 *, Garry James 19 *, Paul Georgiadis dnb, Stuart Ridge (c) dnb

The Result was: –

CCNSW: 8-140 (40 Overs) 

Defeated

Central Cost: 10-58 (35.4 Overs) (S. Ridge 3-7)

By 82 runs

FoW: – 1-20 (Rolls), 2-21 (G. O’Shea), 3-24 (F. Baliotis), 4-24 (D. Pellen), 5-62 (G. Brooks), 6-64 (M. McCormick), 7-100 (S. Ragavan), 8-108 (J. Finucane)

The Bowling was: – S. Ridge 7-2-7-3, S. Ragavan 7-1-12-2, J. Scarcella 4-2-4-0, G. James 7-2-6-2, P. Georgiadis 5-2-8-0, M. McCormick 3.4-1-10-1, G. Brooks 2-0-2-1

The Fielding was: –

Stumpings: – J. Finucane

Catches: – J. Finucane (w), F. Baliotis, G. O’Shea, J. Scarcella,

 Run outs: – P. Georgiadis

Player points (awarded by umpire): – 3 points to J. Finucane; 2 points to G. James; one point to S. Ragavan

Scorecard: https://www.playhq.com/cricket-australia/org/sydney-masters-cricket-association/vintage-summer-202324/vintage/game-centre/f567e311

C&S, Masters, Vintage

WEEK TWENTY THREE: SATURDAY 11- SUNDAY 12 MARCH 2023

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C&S ROUND 16 v PADDINGTON AT CAMPERDOWN OVAL, CAMPERDOWN ON SATURDAY 1 1 MARCH 2023: REPORT BY SOREN HUGHES

Last season when  we played Paddington, or perhaps each time, our batsmen are excited at the prospect of scoring a bunch of runs and the bowlers keen to rack up a few wickets for not many runs and bowling them out cheaply.  It is always ‘a win the toss and bat’ situation and Jamie Murtha- captain on the day-  did not disappoint by winning the toss. Notably the author missed all of this and turned up 40 minutes late thanks to the increasingly unreliable Sydney train services. On arrival someone appeared to have taken over Tom Robertson’s soul and was able to easily flick balls off his legs behind square with confidence. I was informed this had occurred since the start of play and he was 50 odd after 7 overs. Unfortunately that display was soon over with the Tom and Gerry show coming to a close after a century opening partnership with Tom on 79 and Gerry O’Shea  out not long after for 38 (and a near impenetrable defense). Harry Bridge missed out but Declan Thomas (24), Matt Leong (17) and  Sumeet Kudal (30) chipped in with runs. Despite a rather lack-lustre last 3 overs, we made it to 201 from the 35 and most had an opportunity to bat.

Jamie Murtha and Matt Edge opened the bowling for us and Paddington were mostly tied down despite their apparent intent to chase us down. Both Jamie and Matt picked up 2 wickets each for 29  runs after 7 overs  straight by each of them. Soren Hughes and Ed Robertson were first change and after 3 or 4 good overs and a wicket each, a couple of young Paddington batters with ambition took after them, sadly right after one had been  dropped at mid on. Soren won the prize, going for 16 in an over and Ed going for  15. A change of bowlers was required and the slow off spin of Adam Khamis and leg spin of Sumeet Kudal clogged them up and cleaned up whatever was left. Paddington all out for 155 after 30.5 overs. Good on them for coming to Camperdown on a Saturday given the reluctance of so many C&S sides to commit to Saturday games.

Kudos to Sumeet Kudal who has now picked up 6 wickets at an average of 10 and scored 30 runs in one innings in his first two games for CCNSW. 

The Team was: – Tom Robertson 79, Gerald O’Shea 38 , Harry Bridge 0,  Sumeet Kudal 30, Matt Leong (w) 17, Declan Thomas (w) 24, Soren Hughes 7*, Ed Robertson 2, Adam Khamis 0, Jamie  Murtha dnb, Matthew Edge dnb

The Result was: –

C.C.N.S.W.: – 8-201 (35 overs) (T. Robertson 79; G. O’Shea 38)

Defeated

Paddington CC (playing 10): – All out 155 (30.5 overs)

By 46 runs

FoW: – 1-107 (T. Robertson); 2-107 (H. Bridge); 3-125 (G. O’Shea); 4- 168 (M. Leong). 5-185 (S. Kudal); 6-196 (D. Thomas ); 7-201 (E. Robertson); 8-201 (A. Khamis).

The Bowling was: – J. Murtha 7-0-29-2; M. Edge 7-2-29-2; S. Hughes 5-1-30-1, E. Robertson 4-0-28-1; A. Khamis 4-0-14-1; S. Kudal 3.5-0-21-2

The Fielding was: –

Stumpings: – One to M. Leong

Catches: – Two to M. Leong (w)

Run outs: – Nil

Player points (awarded by captain): – 3 points to T. Robertson; 2 points to G. O’Shea; one point to M. Edge

MASTERS ROUND 11  v RYDE/HUNTERS HILL ‘PIRATES’ AT BORONIA PARK, RYDE ON SUNDAY 12 MARCH 2023: REPORT BY ANDREW DADSWELL

Round 11 saw CCNSW and Ryde Pirates play off for sixth   spot on the ladder. The word on the street suggested Boronia Park would be a tricky wicket and with that in mind the captain won the toss and batted first because, well, why not…Match highlight here on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bEdh9X18K9E  

Showing boundless versatility, David Craig was promoted to open the batting and took to the task with zest. In perhaps his last game of Masters – surely not, but it seems the Vintage crew have him on their recruitment list for 2023-24 – David looked solid in defence before his bat grew a few inches and he went big to a ball that popped off a length to be caught behind. This foreshadowed how the pitch would play for the next few hours.

With David Craig dismissed, the other opener Rob Lawther went about his work with some nicely timed cut shots and some trademark pulls to the boundary. In one over he advanced to the spinner and lofted him for a thumping boundary over mid-off, but in the next he tried the same tactic only to be smartly stumped for a well-made 24 runs.

The Masters are known for their top order runs this season and much faith was placed in the likes of Dan Turner, Jason Kenn and Paul Nash who have all had excellent seasons. However, Dan Turner was adjudged lbw, Jason Kenn’s defence was broken by a slider and Paul Nash was caught out on the pull. 5 for 50 in the 11th over and it looked a little dodgy.

Enter Scott Wells.

Whilst most other batters throughout the day struggled to find their timing by virtue of the challenging conditions, Wells latched on to anything remotely full and hit a series of lofted drives for 4s and 6s to retire at 40* in no time at all.

After Dadswell came and went the momentum was maintained by gun recruit Matt Johnston. He continued his good start for the Club my amassing 38 well-made runs and extracted a heavy toll against the spinners. Matt was out to a sharp caught and bowled.

Mick Tarrant was another strong contributor and made an important 24 with support from Ben Stanic and Dave Abreu to get the total past 160. Passers-by could be forgiven for mistaking Mick for a janitor with all the sweeping he was doing.

Wells returned from retirement in the dying overs only to be run out in what might be controversial circumstances as the bowler first knocked off the bails before removing the stump with ball in hand to effect the run out, or did he?

CCNSW made 10-169 which we thought was 20 over par given the conditions. Still, we left some runs out there by being bowled out in the 37thover.

The Pirates put on sandwiches and chocolate crowns for afternoon tea which proved a hit.

In defence of our total, the early overs were dominated by accurate bowling from Ben Stanic and Tarrant, as usual. Ben has been consistently good all season and was unlucky not to get an early wicket. However, in the sixth over he got the first breakthrough, albeit via a direct hit run out from backward square. Great intent shown there.

Three balls later and Mick Tarrant found Bailey’s edge to get him out for a duck – a huge moment because the dude can bat. This wouldn’t be Mick’s last big moment in this game.

Dave Abreu came on first change and as usual bowled a mix of swingers and cutters and troubled the batters without reward whilst Matt Johnston started shakily before hitting his groove and getting three middle order wickets. Matt is tough to play and gets extra bounce which combined with some outswing is a great asset. His spell, combined with his 38 runs would earn him 3 player of the season points. But like Mick, Matt would also have a say towards the end of the match.

Dadswell and Nash bowled to their plans and kept things tight in the latter overs. Nash grabbing a wicket caught behind. With four overs to go the Pirates needed 41 runs to win. Stanic came back and bowled tight lines, getting an lbw along the way. But it was all set up for a dramatic final over.

With 23 needed off 6 balls it was surely in the bag. Mick Tarrant wasn’t too bothered at the start of the over until Grace decided to go 4,4,2 off the first three balls. Now with 13 still needed off 3 balls we were still looking solid and when Mick bowled a nice yorker that was squeezed to the leg side everyone drew a sigh of relief, that’s everyone except Matt Johnston who saw a chance for a run out and went for it. Let’s just say they scored 5 off that delivery and now needed 8 off 2 to win.

Next ball was another attempted yorker but this time Sheddan got under it and scooped it to the leg side boundary for 6! Game on. 2 to win. 1 to tie.

To have a bet each way, the skipper kept the field unchanged. The infielders were ready to pounce. The outfielders were focused. But none of them were needed. Tarrant bowled wide of the off stump and got the swing-and-miss he was after, allowing keeper Lawther to run in and take out the stumps to get the run out and the win.

So, for the Masters the season ended the way it started, with a last ball victory. We seem to know how to win the close ones, just.

The Pirates put on some beers and were great hosts. Post-match we headed to the HHH (Hunters Hill Hotel) and celebrated a successful season, winning 6 of 8 matches played. Jason Kenn gets the prize for best story at the pub.

The Team was: – Rob Lawther (w) 24, David Craig 5, Dan Turner 6, Jason Kenn 4, Paul Nash 1, Scott Wells 40,  Andrew Dadswell (c) 7, Matthew Johnston 38, Michael Tarrant 24, Benjamin Stanic 8, David Abreu 7*

The Result was: –

CCNSW 10-169: – (37 overs) (S. Wells 40; M. Johnston 38)

Defeated

Ryde/Hunters Hill Pirates: – 9-168 (40 overs)

By one run

FoW: – 1-30 (D. Craig); 2-36 (R. Lawther); 3-36 (D. Turner); 4-40 (J. Kenn); 5-50 (P. Nash); 6-98 (A. Dadswell); 7-143 (M. Johnston); 8-158 (M. Tarrant); 9-162 (B. Stanic); 10-169 (S. Wells).

The Bowling was: – B. Stanic 9-0-31-1; M. Tarrant 9-2-37-1; M. Johnston 7-0-35-3; D. Abreu 5-1-21-0; A. Dadswell 6-0-21-0; P. Nash  4-1-20-1

The Fielding was: –

Stumpings: – Nil

Catches: – 4 to R. Lawther (w)

Run outs: – Three: -One to D. Turner; one to B. Stanic and one to R. Lawther (w) 

Player points (awarded by umpire): – 3 points to M. Johnston; 2 points to S. Wells; one point to M. Tarrant

See: – https://www.playhq.com/cricket-australia/org/sydney-masters-cricket-association/masters-summer-202223/masters/game-centre/cfaef661

VINTAGE ROUND 11 v NORTHERN STARS AT CAMPERDOWN OVAL, CAMPERDOWN ON SUNDAY 1 2 MARCH 2023

CCNSW won by forfeit and also won the Premiership; Table below

Sydney Masters Cricket Association – Sydney Vintage Over 60s

League Table 2022-2023

 
 TEAMPWLN/RBONUS POINTSPOINTS
   1CCNSW11920157.40352.4
   2Lindfield11821157.05344.0
   3Sri Lanka11830144.25339.2
   4Cyclones1173142.70307.7
   5Southern Highlands11521134.15298.1
   6Northern Stars11713  84.20264.2
   7Ashfield  DLS Old Boys11362117.00217.0
   8Hunter11252109.45209.4
   9Burwood11372103.05203.0
 10Castle Hill11380123.40191.4
 11Roseville11172  96.20178.2
 12Georges River11282  95.80155.8

SOCIAL GAME (VINTAGE DOUBLE WICKET IN LIEU OF FORFEIT FROM NORTHERN STARS FOR LAST GAME OF THE SEASON) AT CAMPERDOWN OVAL, ON SUNDAY 12 MARCH 2023 : REPORT BY PETER ROLLS 

TEAMS FOR CCNSW VINTAGE DOUBLE WICKET SUNDAY 12 MARCH 2023
Back Row: Jim Hadley, David Wilkinson (guest), Frank Baliotis, Gerard O’Shea, Graham McDonald, Ashok Peiris (guest wk/1), Ajoy Roy.
Front Row: Craig McKenzie (wk/2), Peter Rolls, Michael Carman, Paul Georgiadis.
Absent: Daniel Pellen

Even though the forfeit by Northern Stars (who could only raise 6 players) all but guaranteed us the premiership, it would have been nice to play them for the last game of the Vintage season. We received 40 points for the forfeit so it meant to beat us, second place Lindfield needed to get 278 runs in 40 overs then bowl out third place Central Coast for under 20 overs ie. a miracle needed for a win with huge bonus points…which didn’t eventuate.

So it was decided with so many keen Vintage players still eager for a game, to have a game amongst ourselves.

The Rules:

Six teams of two for a total of 12 players. Each team bats for 4 overs against another team who bowls 2 overs each. Minus 3 runs for a wicket. No LBWs. Eight fielders including the two bowlers. Next game two batsmen padded up as the two umpires. Two rounds of three games then a final if time permitting.

Perfect conditions for cricket with 24°C and a nice breeze. Camperdown oval looking its best for the season and a new pitch prepared that was dry and hard as a goats head. Even a couple dozen spectators to see us in our glory.

Thanks to Ashok Peiris who was going to fill in as keeper (against Northern Stars) for John Finucane who was in India watching the fourth and last test India v Australia (booked before our Vintage season). Ashok plays in a local Sri Lankan comp and has helped us out a couple of seasons ago (a recruit thanks to Sittampalam Ragavan (better known as ‘Raga’). Even though we had a forfeit, Ashok was still keen to play and did a fine job behind the stumps with a sharp catch and an easy stumping in this throw-the-bat competition.

Craig McKenzie (better known as “Bomber”) was a late inclusion and shared the keeping duties with Ashok. ‘Bomber ‘claimed when he got the late call the day before, that he had nightmares that night about bowling. The rules stated he would have to bowl. Not something he has done for over 30 years! These nightmares were a self-fulfilling prophecy that was to come to pass like a Lancaster squadron over Dresden.

Michael Carman (better known as “Opera”) also helped us out on late notice and sings the praises of the Vintage team for given him the opportunity to perform on the big stage of Camperdown.

David Wilkinson (Peter’s soccer mate) who has played against CCNSW C&S for Hunters Hill Pirates kicked some bowling backside with the bat but produced almost as many ball bombs as Bomber as he too is only a keeper/batsman.

Graham McDonald seized the opportunity to enjoy more social cricket with a different flavor to the Raga XI Social games he has played in previously. Also he enjoyed playing with Jim after a few nets sessions during the season with the Coogee locals.

For Jim Hadley, Frank Baliotis, Gerry O’Shea, Paul Georgiadis, Ajoy Roy and Peter Rolls it was a great to celebrate a fine season with like-minded individuals.

The Teams (selected by Peter Rolls with no correspondence entered into):

Round one:

Gerry O’Shea and  Frank Baliotis vs Jim Hadley and Graham McDonald – Jim Hadley and Graham McDonald  batted first and scored 51. Gerry O’Shea and  Frank Baliotis in reply 31 runs. Jim Hadley taking a liking to Gerry O’Shea with three 6s and Frank 1 x 6. Graham doing a fine job of turning over the strike to Jim who was having a day out with bat and ball.

Ajoy Roy and  Daniel Pellen  vs Paul Georgiadis & Craig McKenzie (“Bomber”) – Ajoy Roy  and Daniel  Pellen batted first and scored 34. Bombs away from Craig McKenzie who manage to get a few to land on the strip and even got a wicket (jubilation!). Paul Georgiadis snared 3 wickets in one over to halt the two big hitters run frenzy. Paul and Craig in reply 28 with both getting out once to make the difference in a nail biter. Daniel Pellen  showing some toe off a 14 step run up but more wayward than a Manly ferry with stalled engines. Craig McKenzie lucky to survive a beamer at his melon then another fully off his gloves onto his check. Luckily no major damage to Craig although Daniel is now having therapy for nightmares too!

Michael Carman  and  Ashok Peiris vs Peter Rolls  and  David Wilkinson – Michael Carman and Ashok Peiris batted first and scored 28. Peter Rolls and David Wilkinson in reply with 42. Michael  bowled tidily but Ashok showing more promise with the ball than Bomber with his ‘offies’ and bowled Peter Rolls with a genuine tweaker! Still not enough wickets to reel in some big hitting, especially from David Wilkinson with four boundaries including a 6.

Round two:

Gerry O’Shea and  Frank Baliotis vs Ajoy Roy and  Daniel Pellen – Gerry O’Shea and Frank Baliotis batted first and scored 17 with Ajoy’s 2 wickets halting their momentum. Ajoy Roy and  Daniel  Pellen replied with  28 and a comfortable win as no outs.

Paul Georgiadis and  Craig McKenzie vs Peter Rolls  and David Wilkinson – Paul Georgiadis and Craig McKenzie batted first and scored a respectable 40 even with 3 outs. Peter Rolls and David  Wilkinson in reply with 70 and taking a very long handle to ‘Bomber’ with 4 x 6s and 3 x 4s. Paul  Georgiadis again very miserly.

Jim Hadley and  Graham McDonald  vs Michael Carman and  Ashok Peiris – Jim Hadley  and  Graham McDonald batted first and scored 47. Michael Carman and Ashok Peiris in reply 22 and having more difficulty with the leg spin of Jim Hadley  than a ballerina on a stage covered in confetti. Graham  McDonald also hard to get away with no boundaries off his bowling or Jim’s.

So the winning teams were (2 wins apiece):

Jim Hadley  and Graham McDonald

Ajoy Roy and Daniel Pellen

Peter Rolls and David Wilkinson

Round 2 finished at 5pm so it was decided early beers was the winner. Then all the “what if’s” came into play to finish an enjoyable competition and afternoon.

Runs per player:

Jim Hadley 45+31=76, Graham McDonald 5+16=21, Gerry O’Shea 12+8=20, Frank Baliotis 16+9=25, Ajoy Roy 9+11=20, Daniel Pellen 20+12=32, Michael Carman 16+5=21, Ashok Peiris 9+11=20, Paul Georgiadis 9+11=20, Craig McKenzie 19+28=47, Peter Rolls 17+25=42, David Wilkinson 23+40=63.

C&S, LMS, Masters, Social, Vintage

WEEK TWENTY ONE : WEDNESDAY 22 FEBRUARY-THURSDAY 2  MARCH 2023

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LMS T20 (8-a-SIDE) EASTERN SYDNEY MIDWEEK DIVISION 2  ROUND 14 v ‘JOHNNY CASH MEMORIAL’ AT MP 5 ROBERTSON ROAD, MOORE  PARK ON WEDNESDAY 22 FEBRUARY 2023 

Cancelled by rain

C&S ROUND 14A v YARALLA  AT GODDARD OVAL, CONCORD ON SATURDAY 25 FEBRUARY 2023

Pitch unable to be prepared by groundsman because of rain the previous Thursday

C&S ROUND 14B v REG BARTLEY XI AT REG BARTLEY OVAL, RUSHCUTTER BAY ON SUNDAY 26 FEBRUARY 2023: REPORT BY JAMIE MURTHA

It was a stunning late February day for our match against the RBXI at their home ground in Rushcutters Bay. As you turn down Waratah Street you see the picturesque oval, lush green grass surrounded by a cream picket fence, with large trees scattered around the perimeter, a similar feeling to Camperdown. On the North side of the ground is Sydney harbour, home to hundreds of sail boats floating there in the still deep blue water.

It was a warm afternoon, as the teams got ready, the captains tossed a coin, falling against CCNSW this time and we were sent into field.

James Murtha took the new ball from the Paddington end, the conditions produce some inswing in the first over, but the assertive opener looking to capitalise on anything slightly short managed to start well getting a few runs on the board. Andy Durant took the new ball from the harbour end and delivered a quality maiden over, beating the bat a couple of times. In his second over, Murtha found his line and length removing the opener with a sharp cutter that hit the batsman in front (playing on the back foot), after a long appeal the umpires fingers went up! 1 down.

Durant kept toiling and bowled economically without luck, his bowling suited the conditions and made the batters very uncomfortable! A quick change from the Paddington, Toby Forbes too made good use of the conditions, bowling short of a length; the batters couldn’t find their timing on the back foot as Mick McGrath prevented any opportunity for runs at cover.

Henry Davis the leg spinner on debut replaced Durant and was unlucky not to take a wicket, several balls in his 3 over spell going either side or just short of the fielders. A double change at around 1-60 after 14 overs:  McGrath bowled from the harbour end and Rhys Longbottom from the Paddington end. Both produced exceptional spells. Longbottom was fast, full, and providing real problems for the batters. McGrath was superbly accurate in his spell of 6 overs 1-6, including the critical wicket setting up RBXI’s No.3 batter in his first over, getting one to nip away and take the edge, with  Declan Thomas taking a great catch with the gloves moving to his right.

With the end of the innings approaching, Aaditya Mahata, Luke Holman and Toby Forbes bowled well, creating half chances, it was a good contest, with the batters continuing to tick the scoreboard over. Longbottom returned to bowl the final over of the innings with devastating effect. 2 wickets and a run-out from cover by McGrath assisted by Thomas behind the stumps,  to restrict the score to 8-132.

— Innings Break —

As we know, anything above 130 is a tough score to chase at this ground, made tougher by being effectively one down as a result of losing previous John McDonald Medal recipient Forbes to work commitments. 
Our openers Michael Carman and James Bonkowski went out to get us underway. The opening spells were tight. Our first run didn’t come until the fourth over, ‘Bonkers’ with a tidy flick of the legs for one; unfortunately he fell only two overs later to a sharp return catch by the bowler. 6 overs 1-5.

Rhys Longbottom was positive from the outset  but was forced to run ones and twos against his natural game due to the long boundaries, Carman was solid in  defence at the other end. Longbottom’s luck ran out after being struck right in front moving across the crease for 16. 13 overs 2-32. Followed shortly after by Carman, caught for 15 and Holman caught for 1 (another excellent return catch.) 

We were reeling at 4-45. Henry Davis dug in to try and stabilise the innings, while debutant Aaditya Mahata counter attacked effectively from the other end. He too was forced to run ones and twos but did manage to hit three particularly clean fours towards the square leg boundary. The pitch unfortunately had his number when a mistimed pull shot was skied and comfortably taken, out for an attractive 30. Declan Thomas was dismissed without troubling the scorers. It took a good catch, hit hard and flat. 6-70 after 25.

Henry Davis was out for 10 trying to pick up the scoring; he got decent hold of a pull shot in front of square straight to the fielder. Durant and McGrath boxed the ball around with good intent. They put pressure back on the bowling with a quick-fire 20 run partnership. Durant felt hard done by to be adjudged lbw for 12. Perhaps he got a tickle on it? Few could corroborate his feeling on the day.

Murtha was the last batter in, and solidly negotiated the final ball of the over back down the pitch to the bowler. The equation was 21 runs to win off 12 balls, McGrath on strike loaded up for the big pull shot, which had been a feature of his innings so far, but unfortunately picked out the man right on the boundary, out for 21 and closing out the innings. Murtha stranded on 0* entertained with a tongue in cheek request to bat alone, smiles all round.

Despite the outcome a good time was had by all at the beautiful Reg Bartley oval, the game was played in excellent spirit against a good side. Post-match underneath an orange sky the teams shook hands and shared beers and recollections of the enjoyable match and the hopes for even more fixtures in the future.

The Team was: – Michael Carman 15, James Bonkowski 1, Rhys Longbottom 16, Luke Holman 1, Henry Davis 10, Aaditya Mahata 30, Declan Thomas (w) 0, Mick McGrath 21, Adam Durant 12, Jamie Murtha (c) 0* Toby Forbes absent

The Result was: 

Reg Bartley XI: – 8-134 (35 overs) (R. Longbottom 3-18)

Defeated

C.C.N.S.W.: – All out 112 (33.1 overs) (A. Mahata 30)

By 22 runs

FoW: – 1-4 (J. Bonkowski); 2- 32 (R. Longbottom); 3-38 (M. Carman); 4-43 (L. Holman).5-93 (A. Mahata); 6-93 (D. Thomas); 7-105 (H. Davis); 8-108 (A. Durant ).; 9-112 (M. McGrath); 

The Bowling was: – J. Murtha 3-0-19-1, A.  Durant 6-1-25-0, M.  McGrath 6-3-6-1, H. Davis 3-1-13-0, A.  Mahata 3-0-20-0, R. Longbottom 7-2-18-3, T.  Forbes 5-1-24-1,  L. Holman 2-0-11-1

The Fielding was: –

Stumpings: – Nil

Catches: – 2 to D. Thomas (w) and one to A. Durant

Run outs: – One to M. McGrath

Player points (awarded by captain): – 3 points to M. McGrath; 2 points to R. Longbottom; one point to D. Thomas

MASTERS ROUND 10  v LINDFIELD   AT CAMPERDOWN PARK, CAMPERDOWN ON SUNDAY 26 FEBRUARY 2023: REPORT BY ROB LAWTHER

Another hot humid day at Camperdown Park. No one was looking forward to running around in the heat so Andy Dadswell winning the toss and electing to bat was well received by all. Lindfield only had 9 players (including one child filling in) so we agreed to lend them a fielder. A late withdrawal due to illness from CCNSW meant it was 10 v 10 in the field – game on. 

The opening partnership of Rob Lawther (16) and Ed Cross (14) was steady if relatively uneventful. The pitch was a bit slow with the odd ball keeping low, with batsmen wary of going on the back foot. Eventually both openers were removed lbw (both adamant it was sliding down leg, obviously), bringing Dan Turner and Paul Nash to the crease. Some solid batting brought us to 2-80 at drinks – a “solid platform” as described by the skipper.

From there Nash and Turner continued their great partnership, accelerating the scoring and each retiring at 40* in style. Dadswell had a swashbuckling innings, featuring some lovely drives over cover, finally undone being bowled for 39 going for one big shot too many. Some big hitting by Michael Johnston in the final overs saw him to a quick-fire 21* not out, and brought the team to a very respectable 5-215 off our 40 overs.

After a few too many ‘twisties’ and ‘choccy bikkies’ it was time to take the field. Ben Stanic and David Abreu opened the bowling knowing we needed a good start to apply some pressure to the Lindfield openers. They did just that, keeping the runs down and watching the required run rate slowly creep up. Abreu got one of the openers to play across the line and pinned him lbw (smashing middle, obviously). Stanic then had the perfect set up the next over – first a long hop which was smashed for four through midwicket. Then a length ball just outside off which was back-foot cover driven with ferocity to the pickets. Finally one just short of a length that didn’t get up and cannoned into the base of middle stump. Classic.

With the Lindfield openers gone and the run rate going up, some great tight bowling from Jose Poothokaren and Johnston meant Lindfield were never in the hunt. Pick of the bowlers was Poothokaren with 3-11 off 6 including a one-handed ‘speccy’ by the keeper, rob Lawther diving to take an under-edge that wouldn’t have carried to first slip. Special mention also for Johnston’s miserly spell of 1-4 off 6, including some of the best long (and lone!) lbw appeals you’ve ever hear. Eventually Lindfield limped to be all out for 74 after 32 overs.

Thanks to Lindfield for a good day of cricket played in the right spirit, and good work to the CCNSW boys on a good win.

The Team was (playing 10): – Rob Lawther (w) 16, Ed Cross 14, Dan Turner 40* ret not out, Paul Nash 41* ret not out, Sanjeet Bhandari 1, Andrew Dadswell 39, Michael Johnston 21*, Jose Poothokaren 4, David Abreu 6*, Ben Stanic dnb, Peter Constantinou dnb (absent ill)

The Result was: –

C.C.N.S.W.: – 5-215 (40 overs) (P. Nash 41* ret not out; D Turner 40* ret not out; A. Dadswell 39)

Defeated

Lindfield CC: – All out 74 (9 players) (32 overs) (J. Poothokaren 3-11)

By 141 runs

FoW: – 1-26 (E. Cross); 2-37 (R. Lawther) 3-111 (S. Bhandari); 4-191 (A. Dadswell); 5-195 (J. Poothokaren).

The Bowling was: – B. Stanic 6-1-22-1; D. Abreu 6-1-21-1; M. Johnston 6-2-4-1; J. Poothokaren 6-0-11-3, E. Cross 4-0-8-0, A. Dadswell 4-1-4-1

The Fielding was: –

Stumpings: – One to R. Lawther

Catches: – One to R. Lawther (w)

Run outs: – Nil

Player points (awarded by umpire): – 3 points to A. Dadswell; 2 points to P. Nash; one point to D. Turner

See:–www.playhq.com/cricket-australia/org/sydney-masters-cricket-association/masters-summer-202223/masters/game-centre/02d9be0e

VINTAGE ROUND 9  v  CENTRAL COAST AT ROGERS PARK OVAL No 1, WOY WOY ON SUNDAY 26 FEBRUARY 2023: REPORT BY PETER ROLLS

A performance for the ages by the Prez!

A hot 32°C and humid day with plenty of sunshine and only a slight breeze. No rain in sight or forecast.

A top of the table clash with the Central Coast only a couple of points behind us and only two losses like us and two teams in third and fourth place only a few points further behind.

The pitch was well grassed but a bit soft in patches where there was no grass after 40mm rain mid-week. Phone calls were made by Central Coast reassuring us that the wicket would be ready and covered the night before but they failed to inform the groundsman. No covers but luckily no rain overnight and the groundsman had an hour to prepare. Luckily there was a game played on the same wicket on the Saturday so it did have some preparation on the Friday. Even though the wicket looked dodgier than a vindaloo left out in the sun, the groundsman said 200 runs were scored on the Saturday and with the current stifling heat and humidity the decision to bat was made after winning the toss.

It was apparent after a few overs that this was going to be a difficult wicket to bat on and we were to be told,  half way through the game by a local, that 100 runs is a good score in 40 overs and typical of many Vintage games here. CC took advantage of the seam and slow bounce by bowling on a good length and letting the ball do the work. As nothing was coming off the bat we had to work the singles and the thick kikuyu outfield meant aerial was the only way to get boundaries.

The CC fielding was sublime when Frank Baliotis (2) smashing a rare loose ball hard to mid-on and was snapped up.1-2 off 3 overs. There followed a bizarre run out of John Finucane (4) initially turning back  for a second run after his good aerial shot over mid-on but then  deciding not to go, His bat appeared to get stuck in the grass, while he was trying to slide it into the crease. 2-16 off 10 overs.

CC’s fine fielding continued with finger tips scraping the grass diving forward to get Gerry O’Shea (16) cutting a short ball that popped on him. 3-26 off 16 overs. 

Peter Rolls (10) and Greg Brooks were starting to get some momentum when Peter flicked a ball hard off his pads towards mid-wicket when the 70 yr old CC  Captain Grieg Buscombe stuck his right hand out at full stretch at short mid-wicket for it to stick. 4-50 off 25 overs.

Mick McCormick  (0) tried to go aerial too early off a ball that bounced slowly off the pitch which meant his off drive went straight up in the air and was  caught. 5-57 off 26 overs.

Greg Brooks threw his quality willow at anything slightly full or short for five boundaries including a mighty 6 and soon retired not out at 30. A much needed one in the bank with smart aerial play on this “tennis ball” bounce wicket.

Mel Lucas (0) replaced Greg and had no choice but to throw the bat as soon as he entered the fray with only 11 overs remaining in a fine show of team spirit. A good cut shot but straight to point who held it. 6-71 off 29 overs.

Ajoy Roy(4) in his first game for 12 months (after having long Covid and other health issues) looked in command until a poor umpiring decision had him caught behind hitting the ground with an attempted drive. Even Garry James at the non-striker’s end,  saw a 4 inch gap between the bat and ball as it went past the outside edge. 7-76 off 32 overs.

Garry James (17) had combined well with Greg Brooks, then Ajoy Roy and then Stuart Ridge until he got one of the occasional massive off cutters that skittled his stumps. 8-92 off 37 overs.

Paul Georgiadis (0) was a gracious team man again (like against Southern Highlands) in throwing his bat at the onset and was bowled off the second ball he faced. 9-92 off 37 overs. Paul’s great team spirit allowed the return of a recycled Greg Brooks for what would be the finest display of big hitting I have ever seen in Vintage cricket. With three overs to go Greg and Stuart ridge put on a show for the last wicket that was cheered every ball. Even when Stuart blocked the last ball of an over he got a cheer as we knew Greg would get to face the next over. Over 38 went for 19 runs; over 39 went for only 3 runs but over 40 went for 18 runs with balls dispatched in all directions for a total of 9-133 and a score with “hope” for our bowlers. Greg 64* (including a further two 6s and four 4s) and Stuart 10*, both unconquered.

At tea, a well earned breather for all from the humidity and then we took the field with a spring in our step with the wicket still doing a bit. CC needing 3.3 per over.

Stuart Ridge  fresh from representing Australia in Overs 60’s ODI tournament in Barbados (and voted the second MVP for the tournament) was on song (even though congested with a cold from the flight back) and picked up our first wicket in his second over courtesy of a stunning reflex one handed catch at first slip by Greg Brooks when the ball was edged between keeper and first slip. 1-6 off 3 overs.

Paul Georgiadis opened at the other end and bowled a good line and length except for the odd short ball which CC pounced on as they knew they would get nothing from Stuart who took our second wicket in his fourth over bowling their number 3 with an in-swinger. 2-18 off 7 overs.

Both Stuart and Paul bowled only 4 of their max 7 overs due to the humidity and saving them for later. Greg Brooks replaced Stuart Ridge and kept it tight with a great line and length and Garry James  came on after Paul Georgiadis to great effect with two wickets in his first over (one bowled and one caught Ridge at cover). Wickets 3 and 4 for 33 off 10 overs.

Garry James then bowled their dangerous swinging left handed opener on 20 with an ‘offie’ he pushed through quicker. 5-40 off 14 overs.

Greg Brook’s fine spell was rewarded in his fifth over with an lbw. 6-48 off 17 overs. He was rewarded again in his sixth and seventh overs with a wicket in each (bowled middle peg and caught by a superb outstretched one handed grab from a snick by keeper John Finucane). 8-57 off 21 overs.

Then in the next 12 overs, a partnership developed between their numbers 6 and 10. Our fielders were throwing their bodies around like Greco-Roman wrestlers (which is not easy at our age) but Frank Baliotis, Gerard O’Shea and Mel Lucas saved many runs with their acrobatics. This CC partnership got them to 100 in the thirty third over by smart cricket just waiting for the odd loose ball from Mick McCormick, Gerard O’Shea and Ajoy Roy  who all put in sterling efforts under tense pressure. Even Stuart Ridge came back for one over to try to get a break through. Hopes were fading with only 35 runs required off 7 overs. (5 per over).

Enter partnership breaker Paul Georgiadis and in his second returning over, he had their number 10 hole out to Stuart Ridge at mid-wicket with a good and important catch. 9-100 off 33 overs.

The CC number 11 could also hold a bat and was feeding the strike to their number 6 who had reached 30 but continued batting as the last wicket was in. Over 34 went for 5 runs; over 35 went for 3; over 36 went for 5.

Stuart Ridge returned for over 37 and on his second ball CC number 6 made a strong cut shot that flew behind square.  Greg Brooks fielding at deep fly slip, launched like NASA, diving to his right to take a spectacular one handed catch to win us the game. Euphoria erupted from the team with hugs to Greg, lifting him off the ground which is some feat for this massive man.

A win by 18 runs but it felt like a win by one run so the beers went down well with Greg the stand out man of the match winner with 64* not out, 3 wickets and 2 excellent catches to get a bottle of red he knows his wife will love. (Ed note: Greg is a teetotaler) An individual performance I have not seen before in Vintage cricket but still also ten other players that all contributed in different ways to make this a special team effort. 

A tough final match against Northern Stars on Sunday 12 March to finish the season. Let’s hope we can all put in a big effort to finish on a high to stay on top with what has already been a special season of good sportsmanship and fun camaraderie.

The Team was: –  Frank Baliotis 2, Gerard O’Shea 16, John Finucane (w) 4 , Peter  Rolls (c) 10, Greg Brooks 64*, Mick McCormick 0, Garry James 17, Mel Lucas 0, Ajoy Roy 4, Stuart Ridge 10*, Paul Georgiadis 0

The Result was: 

C.C.N.S.W.: – 9-133 (40 overs) (G. Brooks 64*)

Defeated

Central Coast: – 10-115 (37.2 overs) (S Ridge 3-8; G. James 3-9; G. Brooks 3-21)

By 18 runs

FoW: – 1-2 (F. Baliotis); 2-16 (J. Finucane); 3-26 (G. O’Shea); 4-50 (P. Rolls); 5-57 (M. McCormick); 6-72 (M. Lucas); 7-76 (A. Roy); 8-92 (G. James); 9-92 (P. Georgiadis).

The Bowling was: – S. Ridge 5.2-1-8-3; P. Georgiadis 7-0-33-1; G. Brooks 7-1-21-3; G. James 7-3-6-3; G. O’Shea 5-0-15-0; M. McCormick 2-0-14-0; A. Roy 4-0-14-0

The Fielding was: –

Stumpings: – Nil

Catches: – 2 to G. Brooks; 2 to S. Ridge and one to J. Finucane (w)

Run outs: – Nil

Player points (awarded by umpire): – 3 points to G. Brooks; 2 points to S. Ridge; one point to G. James

See: https://www.playhq.com/cricket-australia/org/sydney-masters-cricket-association/vintage-summer-202223/vintage/game-centre/f8494563

SOCIAL GAME v VICTORIA BARRACKS XI AT VICTORIA BARRACKS, OXFORD STREET  ON THURSDAY 2 MARCH 2023 

Game cancelled by Army as ground not available; being used for other military purposes.

LMS, Masters, Social, Vintage

WEEK NINETEEN: THURSDAY 9 FEBRUARY-SUNDAY 12 FEBRUARY 2023

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LMS T20 (8-a-SIDE) EASTERN SYDNEY MIDWEEK DIVISION 2  ROUND 12 v ‘JOHNNY CASH MEMORIAL’ AT CP 4 BRAZILIAN FIELD , CENTENNIAL  PARK ON THURSDAY 9 FEBRUARY 2023

Cancelled because of rain.

MASTERS  ROUND 9 v  BURWOOD BRIARS  AT RON ROUTLEY OVAL, ROTHWELL PARK, CONCORD ON SUNDAY 12 FEBRUARY 2023: REPORT BY JASON  KENN  

A glorious albeit a little warm day greeted both teams as Burwood hosted CCNSW at Ron Routley Oval.

CCNSW welcomed 3 debutants Kieren Purnell, Sandeep Bhandari and Matthew (‘Matty J’) Johnston into the team to bolster an already strong CCNSW squad.  Welcome to the Club, gentlemen.

The day started on a winning note, with Andrew Dadswell winning the all important toss and having no hesitation in batting first on a deck that would come to resemble Nagpur by the end of the day’s play.  A new opening combination of Rob Lawther and Kieran Purnell strode to the crease, and started positively with a partnership of 21, until Kieran was trapped in front for 4 by a new ball that didn’t bounce more than a few inches.  Enter an in-form v/c Dan Turner who continued the momentum with Rob scoring freely as both took control on a tricky pitch.  

Rob worked his way to 40*  retired prior to drinks and never gave the opposition a chance with his stylish shots all around the ground, and even ducking a weaving a few head high full tosses. This brought last season’s leading run scorer to the crease Jason Kenn.  Dan and Jason survived some tight stump to stump bowling to go to drinks at 1-79.  On resumption, Jason put one over the fence (because it would be rude not too), before I tried to replicate the same shot, but the pitch demons got the better of me and I was bowled for 9.

Enter another debutant Sandeep Bhandari who joined Dan who continued to look like another retirement looming, before he played and missed for a well earned 31.  Quick wickets fell in succession and we were in trouble before our third debutant Matt Johnston came to the crease for the first time in 18 months after shattering his finger in a club game.  Showing no rust, he joined Sandeep who was also victim to the bounce and trapped lbw for 10.  Mick Tarrant came in at 6-119 in the 29th over and he and ‘Matty J’ regained control of the innings, constantly finding the gaps and the boundary, before Mick hit one straight back to the bowler to be dismissed for 19.  Dave (reverse sweep specialist) Craig joined Matty J (who was running out of puff), and showcased his skills to keep pushing the score past 160 before Matty J was stumped for a well deserved 28.  Ben Stanic pushed the scoreboard to 170 before being run out on the last ball of the innings.  CCNSW headed to the sheds for a well earned drink 9/170 after 40 overs. 

As we sat around and contemplated how to go about defending this total on a pitch on which it was becoming more difficult to score runs, our philosophy was to bowl full and straight, and that’s what our opening pair of Ben Stanic and Mick Tarrant did. The plan worked in Mick’s first over trapping their opener on the pads.  Burwood found scoring tough early on and Ben Stanic struck next helped out by a reflex catch by Dave Craig (who still probably hasn’t seen the ball).  

Runs then flowed at a steady pace for Burwood before a 60 run partnership was broken in the 25th over by a glorious delivery from Jose Poothokaren  to remove their opener for 39 (ouch).

Burwood looked to be gaining the upper hand in the middle stages, but enter our captain, Andy Dadswell who worked his magic to remove their dangerous middle order batter, bowling him around his legs.  A few field changes to try and dry up the singles paid off with a sharp catch at short mid wicket by Jason Kenn to remove their hitter for 27.  The game was in the balance with Burwood needing 24 of 18 balls, as Mick Tarrant came back for his second spell, and changed the game in CCNSW favour, only going for 3 runs in the 38th over.  Tight bowling from Ben Stanic in the 39th over. 15 now needed off 6 balls but Mick Tarrant continued his line and length with 2 wickets in the final over sealing the game for CCNSW.  Mick Tarrant finished with 4-21, Andy Dadswell 3-30 and wickets each to Ben Stanic  and Jose Poothokaren.  

This was a great game to be part of,- tight to the very end, and played in the true spirit of the game.  

The Team was: – Rod Lawther (w) 40* ret not out; Kieren Purnell 4, Dan Turner 31, Jason Kenn 9, Sanjeet Bhandari 11, Andrew Dadswell (c) 5, Jose  Poothokaren 0, Matthew Johnston 28, Michael Tarrant 19, David Craig 7*, Ben Stanic 3

The Result was: –

C.C.N.S.W.: – 9-170 (40 overs) (R. Lawther 40* ret not out)

Defeated

Burwood Briars CC: – 9-161 (40 overs) (M. Tarrant 4-21)

By 9 runs

FoW: – 1-21 (K. Purnell); 2-83 (J. Kenn); 3-95 (D. Turner;) 4-100 (A. Dadswell); 5-108 (J. Poothokaren),;6-119 (S. Bhandari); 7-153 (M. Tarrant); 8-163 (M. Johnston); 9-170 (B. Stanic).

The Bowling was: – B. Stanic 9-0-38-1; M. Tarrant 9-0-21-4; D. Craig 4-0-17-0; M. Johnston 5-0-24-0; J. Poothokaren 7-0-27-1; A. Dadswell 6-0-30-3

The Fielding was: –

Stumpings: – Nil

Catches: – One to R. Lawther (w); and one to each of D. Craig, J. Kenn and B. Stanic

Run outs: – Nil

Player points (awarded by umpire): – 3 points to R. Lawther; 2 points to M. Tarrant; one point to M. Johnston

See: https://www.playhq.com/cricket-australia/org/sydney-masters-cricket-association/masters-summer-202223/masters/game-centre/7794ae53

VINTAGE ROUND 9  v SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS  AT CAMPERDOWN PARK, CAMPERDOWN ON SUNDAY 12 FEBRUARY 2023: REPORT BY GERALD O’SHEA

CCNSW (in white shirts) and Southern Highlands (in blue shirts) in a pre-match barefoot ceremony as recommended by Cricket NSW

After a pre-match barefoot ceremony honouring and showing respect for local Indigenous Country the Vintage side went on to win a thriller at Camperdown Oval last Sunday in a high quality encounter with the strong Southern Highlands side. This victory has taken a few years to come around so spirits are high heading into the last two rounds. Cricketers’ Club won the flip and batted first and after a slowish start (2-8 off 6 overs) against a very accurate bowling attack were soon able to change gear through solid knocks from Joe Scarcella (34*) and Peter Rolls (31). Greg Brooks (30*) then came to the wicket and followed them into the shed with his signature ball striking that accelerated our run rate, taking pressure off instantly. This is what he does. The back end of the innings was fortified by Jim Hadley’s sublime 32* and Sittampalam Ragavan’s (‘Raga’) accompanying 23* giving the Highlanders requiring a fair shot to pass CCNSW total of 8-170.

The Southern Highlands boys started well enough, keeping abreast of the 4.25 run rate but little by little CCNSW’s accurate bowling saw them gain the upper hand. Southern Highlands were 7-150 off 37 overs with 3 overs to go and 21 needed. In the 38th over Hadley  only conceded  2 runs and a wicket and in the 39th over Brooks only 3 runs and a wicket . this halted their momentum and the match went into the last over with southern highlands  requiring 16 runs to win, Raga (2-14) held his nerve in the last over to see us close out the match out and win  by 9 runs (with only 6 runs off Raga’s over). 

CCNSW bowling was on display last Sunday and wickets were shared around including Greg (2-32), Jim Hadley (2-23), raga (2-14),  Joe Scarcella (1-18) and Garry James  (1-37) digging deep with a dodgy knee and rewarded with a wicket at the games critical turning point. Special mention goes to keeper John Finucane whose skill is quite breathtaking at times. He snapped up 3 sharp catches, and a fourth snick, although heard all over the field was denied.  Also good catches by Joe Scarcella and Paul Georgiadis and a special one hander by Greg off his own bowling in his final over. Joe Scarcella’ all-round performance saw him named MOM on a memorable Sunday at Camperdown where Peter Rolls and his merry men were a reminder of how well a team can stick together when it matters.

Special thanks to Carla Stacey (Inner West Council’s ‘Coordinator Sporting Partnerships’) and her lady helpers from the Inner West Council for putting on afternoon tea as part of Council’s Seniors’ Festival. Cakes were amazing with Joe Scarcella (having the first shift off the field as 12thman) being the only one able to take advantage of the Pavlovas as the rest of the team had to bowl and field after tea!

The Team was (playing 12): – Gerard O’Shea 7, Frank Baliotis 0, Joe Scarcella 34*, Peter Rolls (c) 31, Jim Robson 0, Greg Brooks 30* ret not out, Garry James 1, Mick McCormick 5, Jim Hadley 32 * ret not out, John Finucane (w) 1, Sittampalam Ragavan, 22* Paul Georgiadis 1

The Result was: –

C.C.N.S.W.: – 8-170 (40 overs) (J. Scarcella 34*; J. Hadley 32* ret not out; P. Rolls 31; G. Brooks 30* ret not out)

Defeated

Southern Highlands: – 8-161: – (40 overs) 

By 9 runs

FoW: – 1-6 (F. Baliotis); 2-8 (G. O’Shea); 3-82 (J. Robson); 4-101 (G. James); 5-107 (M. McCormick); 6-108 (J. Finucane); 7-161 (P. Georgiadis); 8-163 (P. Rolls)

The Bowling was: – M.  McCormick 3-0-19-0; P. Georgiadis 5-0-17-0; S. Ragavan 6-0-14-2; G. James 7-0-37-1; J. Scarcella 5-1-18-1; J. Hadley 7-0-32-2; G. Brooks 7-1-32-2

The Fielding was: –

Stumpings: – Nil

Catches: – 3 to J. Finucane (w); one to each of G. Brooks, P. Georgiadis and J. Scarcella

Run outs: – Nil

Player points (awarded by umpire): – 3 points to J. Scarcella; 2 points to J. Hadley; one point to G. BrooksSee: https://www.playhq.com/cricket-australia/org/sydney-masters-cricket-association/vintage-summer-202223/vintage/game-centre/43233f7f

SOCIAL GAME   v MOLONGLO  AT KIPPAX OVAL, HOLT,  CANBERRA ON SUNDAY 12 FEBRUARY 2023: REPORT BY SOREN HUGHES [ASSISTED BY AI CHATBOT]

Back row: Luke Holman, Brendon Kay (w), Brett James (c), Mark Henwood, Jack Luff, Tim Kerr
Front row:  Ziggy James, Tom Robertson, Soren Hughes, Rhys Longbottom , Harry Bridge

Molonglo Cricket Club was founded in 1956 as a nomadic social cricket club originally with a strong connection with Canberra Grammar Old Boys. Its logo is a keg of beer which perhaps over-emphasises the social aspects of the Club which contains very competent cricketers. It has no geographic connections with the Molonglo River or valley in Canberra 

With only six players mid week, MCC recruited some local Sri Lankan players for the day, including an opening batter from the local first grade side. CCNSW was also short despite the best efforts of Tom Robertson to persuade more C&S players to come and in the end we recruited 2 local players for the day including most relevantly a keeper and also gave a opportunity to Brett James’ 15 yr old son Ziggy- a promising young bowler.

The game was at the first Grade ground at Kippax Oval 1, located in the suburb of Holt in the Belconnen district of Canberra. 

Tom Robertson  and Rhys Longbottom (recruited from our LMS Mid week team)  opened the batting scoring at a run a ball and put on 84 for the first wicket in 14 overs before Longbottom retired at 50* off 42 balls and Tom was out,  hit wicket  for 31 off 38 balls. The partnership built a strong foundation for the rest of the team but unfortunately the opportunity was not taken. Apart from 39 off 54 balls from Harry Bridge and an obdurate 19 from Brett James off 28 balls the rest of the batting failed and we ended with 8-178 off 40 overs, only adding 94 runs from the last 26 overs

Brett James and Rhys Longbottom opened the bowling and Brett dismissed both openers in his first four overs to reduce Molonglo to 2-26 in the seventh over  but their numbers 3 and 4 batters were a class above us and both reached 50^ ret not out. Apart from a very economical spell by Soren Hughes (7 overs for 12 runs) the rest of our bowlers failed to contain them until the late introduction of young Ziggy James who brought us back into the game with only a few overs left and took 2-10 from 7 overs on his CCNSW debut. 

At 6-149 with only 6 overs left the game seemed in the balance. Unfortunately their number 10 batter (current First Grad top order batter), dealing mainly in boundaries was too good for us and delivered blow after blow to win the game for Molonglo on the first ball of the 40th over. We did drop a couple of catches so the game was there to be won by us but we didn’t take the opportunities.

A great day was had by all and the fun and merriment was reflected in the post game banter and a speeding ticket for one lucky driver who didn’t lose any demerit points on the ACT side of the border. 

This report was partly generated for you by a chat bot who has, in so doing, perhaps delivered possibly our first AI generated match report. (Ed note: a lot of factually incorrect information generated by the ChatBot has been deleted and Soren Hughes takes responsibility for what remains above)

The Team was: – Tom Robertson (c) 31, Rhys Longbottom 50* ret not out, Harry Bridge 37, Tim Kerr 2, Soren Hughes 12, Brett James 19, Brendan Kay (w) 5, Luke Holman 10, Mark Henwood 2, Jack Luff 2*, Ziggy James 3*

The Result was: 

C.C.N.S.W.: – 8-178 (40 overs) (R. Longbottom 50* ret not out)

Lost to

Molonglo CC: – 6-179 (39.1 overs) 

By 4 wickets

FoW: – 1- 84 (T. Robertson); 2- 85 (T. Kerr); 3- 111 (H. Bridge); 4-150 (S. Hughes); 5-157 (B. James); 6-159 (B. Kay); 7- 168 (M. Henwood); 8-170 (L. Holman).

The Bowling was: – B. James 7-0-30-2; R. Longbottom 8-1-35-0; S. Hughes 7.1-3-12-0; L. Holman 2-0-9-0; J. Luff 2-0-22-0; H. Bridge 3-0-15-0; Z. James 7-1-10-2; M. Henwood 3-0-24-0

The Fielding was: –

Stumpings: – Nil

Catches: – One each to M. Henwood, B. James and T. Robertson

Run outs: – One to J. Luff

C&S, LMS, Masters, Match Reports, Social, Vintage

WEEK SEVENTEEN: WEDNESDAY 25 JANUARY-SUNDAY 29 JANUARY 2023

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LMS T20 (8-a-SIDE) EASTERN SYDNEY MIDWEEK DIVISION 2  ROUND 10 v ‘NRLCC’ AT MP 8, ROBERTSON ROAD, MOORE PARK ON WEDNESDAY 25 JANUARY 2023: REPORT BY SCOTT WILLIAMS 

CCNSW win the toss and elected to bowl. Things got off to a great start with Mick McGrath being unplayable and even bowling a maiden-a very rare event in LMS cricket. Scott Williams and Mick kept things tidy for the first 8 overs and NRLCC never recovered, only scoring 5-106 off their 20 overs with new keeper and English debutant Freddie Greenwood getting a stumping and 2 catches..  

CCNSW needed to score 107 within 16 overs to get the bonus point and Stephen Sheakey (13 off 9 balls) and Rob Shone (30 off 35 balls) got us off to the start we needed. Once ‘Sheaks’ departed, Freddie Greenwood (50* off 34 balls) picked up where ‘Sheaks’ left off and we managed to win in the sixteenth over with a bonus point. 

The Team was: –  Steven Sheakey 13, Rod Shone 30, Fred Greenwood (w) 50*, Tom Richardson 9, Mick McGrath 0, Scott Williams 5, Jim Hadley (c) dnb, Soren Hughes dnb and Will Jacobs dnb

The Result was:- 

NRLCC: – 5-106 (20 overs)

Lost to

CCNSW: – 3-107 (15.2 overs) (F. Greenwood 50*; R. Shone 30)

By 5 wickets

The Bowling was: – S. Williams 4-0-14-1; M. McGrath 4-1-13-2; T. Richardson 3-0-21-0, S. Sheakey 3-0-13-0; R. Shone 3-0-16-1; J. Hadley 3-0-27-0

The Fielding was:-

Stumpings: – 2 to F. Greenwood

Catches: – One to F. Greenwood (w)

Run outs: – Nil

Player points (awarded by captain): – 3 points to F. Greenwood; 2 points to M. McGrath; 1 point to R. Shone

See:  https://www.lastmanstands.com/leagues/scorecard/2nd-innings?fixtureid=370871

SOCIAL GAME V ‘RAGA’ INVITATION XI   AT CAMPERDOWN PARK, CAMPERDOWN  ON THURSDAY 26 JANUARY 2023: REPORT BY PETER ROLLS

[PETER ROLLS REPORT TO FOLLOW]

The Team was: –  John Finucane  4, Andrew Thurlow 3, Michael  Carman 10, Mel Lucas 30*, Peter Rolls (c) 7, Greg Brooks 5, David Craig 13, John Jackson 25. Paul Kumar 1, David Wright 9, Joe Scarcella 0

The Result was: 

Raga Invitation XI: – 9-199 (40 overs) (J. Finucane 3-14; G. Brooks 3-24)

Defeated

C.C.N.S.W.: – 10-119 (38 overs) (M. Lucas 30)

By 80 runs

FoW: – 1-4 (A. Thurlow); 2- 9 (J. Finucane); 3-50 (G. Brooks); 4-50 (P. Rolls). 5-72 (D. Craig); 6-73 (P. Kumar); 7- 94 (J. Scarcella); 8-113 (D. Wright); 9-117 (M. Carman); 10-119 (J. Jackson).

The Bowling was: – G. Brooks 6-0-24-3; J. Scarcella 6-1-20-1; D. Craig 6-0-41-0; M. Carman 4-0-23-0; P. Rolls 6-0-31-0; J. Jackson 5-1-23-1; J. Finucane 4-0-14-3; A. Thurlow 3-0-21-0

The Fielding was: –

Stumpings: –

Catches: – 2 to M. Carman; 2 to P. Kumar, one to P. Rolls and one to J. Scarcella

Run outs: – One to anonymous

CITY AND SUBURBAN ROUND 10  v HUNTERS HILL  AT BORONIA PARK, HUNTERS HILL ON SUNDAY 29 JANUARY 2023: REPORT BY TOM ROBERTSON

Always interesting playing at Boronia Park. Wicket is full of spice. To help bowlers even more, the humidity at Hunters Hill may have exceeded 100%. 

Craig Kitson took the reins and went and lost the toss. Hunters Hill decided to have a bat.

Avi Bhandari and Toby Forbes opened the bowling and the scoring rate was dour. Hunters Hill amassed 1-29 from  their first 18 overs. After drinks wickets steadily fell. We knew their best batter hated spin so Adam Khamis  came on and bamboozled him and got his wicket not long after. One of their middle order batters so struggled with his pads that he eventually just batted without them. Something you don’t see every day. Hunters Hill ended at 9-109 after 35 overs

Our turn to bat to chase a small total. The modern vogue in cricket is to attack the bowling but Hunters Hill’s strength is bowling so we needed to be careful about our chase. Tom Robertson  and  Jamie Murtha opened the CCNSW batting and went at over a run a ball. The ground is probably the biggest in C&S and that made it ripe for threes. We certainly earned our runs the hard way.

A 50 opening partnership all but ensured victory. Tom proved his inability to finish again by choking within sight of the line. Harry Bridge and Paul Nash took us home with more threes. One real point of difference in the sides was our catching; we caught everything (Oh except Declan when his Dad arrived to watch).

The Team was: – Tom Robertson 56, James Murtha 15, Paul Nash 18*, Harry Bridge 11*, Peter Constantinou dnb, Soren Hughes dnb, Toby Forbes dnb, Declan Thomas (w) dnb, Craig Kitson (c) dnb Avinash Bhandari dnb

The Result was: 

Hunters Hill: – 9-109 (35 overs)

Lost to

C.C.N.S.W.: – 2-111 (16 overs) (T. Robertson 56)

By 8 wickets

FoW: – 1- 54 (J. Murtha); 2- 93 (T. Robertson)

The Bowling was: – A. Bhandari 9-4-17-2; T. Forbes 6-2-10-0; S. Hughes 5-0-21-2; P. Nash 3-0-4-0; C. Kitson 3-0-13-1; A Khamis 7-0-35-2; P. Constantinou 2-1-5-2

The Fielding was: –

Stumpings: – Nil

Catches: – 3 to T. Forbes; one each to A. Bhandari S. Hughes, A Khamis, C. Kitson and T. Robertson

Run outs: – Nil

Player points (awarded by captain): – 3 points to T. Robertson; 2 points to A. Bhandari; one point to T. Forbes

MASTERS ROUND 8 v STRATHFIELD CC AT CAMPERDOWN OVAL  ON SUNDAY 29 JANUARY 2023: REPORT BY ANDREW DADSWELL  

A tough day in the office against some genuine quality cricketers

It was hot. It was humid. The opposition was high quality.

After two washouts the CCNSW Masters were keen to get on the field and have a crack at the defending premiers and undefeated Strathfield on our home soil. We presented a strong line-up by CCNSW standards, but so did Strathfield, in fact they seemed to have all their gun players on show and boy did they come ready to play.

Strathfield skipper Pasupati won the toss and happily batted first, taking advantage of the hot conditions. The pitch was an unknown factor and gave us some hope of early damage. Brett James didn’t disappoint with a fine display of left arm medium new ball bowling. But the Strathfield openers played the right shots at the right times until Ben Stanic got a wicket first ball of his spell to remove the dangerous Patel. Strathfield went about seeing off the good balls and punishing anything remotely loose. Four of their top seven batters reached 40*+ retirement scores as we struggled to make inroads in the middle overs. It wasn’t so much a case of bad bowling – it’s just that the batting was very, very good.

Ben Stanic continued to create chances and Mick Tarrant’s second spell was high quality. Their efforts created our best period in the field as we took wickets after drinks. But when Strathfield’s Paul Maraziotis came back to the crease he played his shots and ended up on 92* – just 98 short of his highest score of 190 for the NSW 2nd XI against the likes of Mitch Johnson back in the 2000s!

Against this kind of quality batting if we were to restrict them we needed to hold every half chance. We had our moments in the field with a brilliant one handed diving catch by Brett James, Jason Kenn’s great pair of hands and a beauty of a direct-hit run-out by Ed Cross. However we let a few chances slip too which proved costly, as they always do.

Strathfield’s 8-320 was going to be tough to chase down and it didn’t start well as both openers, Ed Cross and Jason Kenn, departed for ducks. Dan  Turner looked very good against the pace of Kish ‘I don’t bulk bill’ Nadesan and Scott Wells saw off the good bowling early before cashing in with some lusty blows and retiring at number 4. They were ably supported by Rob Lawther who continues to show his quality against good bowling.

But as each quality Strathfield bowler’s spell ended, another quality one would begin There was no let up and we ended up being all out for 134.

Beers were enjoyed after the game and the Strathfield guys are a good bunch.

It is easy to see why they keep winning the over 40s Masters competition each year. With Paul Maraziotis, the 8th highest run scorer ever in Grade Cricket, followed by two current representatives in the Australian  over 40s side  and a bunch of other quality players, they are the yardstick and they showed us the level to which we need to get  if we are to threaten the top sides.

The pitch played excellently and provided good consistent bounce throughout the day.

The Team was: –  Ed Cross 0, Jason  Kenn 0,Dan Turner 26, Scott Wells (w) 43, Rob Lawther 19, Brett James 2, Andrew Dadswell (c) 7, Jose Poothokaren 0, Michael Tarrant 11, David Abreu 11*, Ben Stanic 0

The Result was: –

Strathfield CC: – 8-320 (40 overs) (B. Stanic 4-77)

Defeated

C.C.N.S.W.: -10-134 (35 overs) (S. Wells 43)

By 86  runs

FoW: – 1-0 (E. Cross); 2-0 (J. Kenn); 3-39 (D. Turner); 4-83 (B. James); 5-91 (A. Dadswell); 6-98 (J. Poothokaren); 7-100 (R. Lawther); 8-118 (M. Tarrant); 9-118 (B. Stanic); 10-134 (S. Wells)

The Bowling was: – B.James 9-0-36-1; M. Tarrant 8-0-69-1; B. Stanic 9-0-77-4; D. Abreu 6-0-51-0, A. Dadswell 6-0-57-1; J. Poothokaren 2-0-28-0

The Fielding was: –

Stumpings: – Nil

Catches: – 2 to J. Kenn; one to each of S. Wells (w), B. James and R. Lawther

Run outs: – One to E. Cross

Player points (awarded by umpire): – 3 points to S. Wells; 2 points to B. Stanic; one point to D. Turner

See: https://www.playhq.com/cricket-australia/org/sydney-masters-cricket-association/masters-summer-202223/masters/game-centre/b54ac9dd

VINTAGE ROUND 8 v GEORGES  RIVER   AT BLAND OVAL, RIVERWOOD  ON SUNDAY 29 JANUARY 2023: REPORT BY GREG BROOKS  

When you’re hot, you’re hot!!

The over 60s CCNSW side arrived at Bland Oval with the conditions best described as hot and humid. Clouds were gathering and the first thought from the ‘Weather Oracle’ (Mr. G. James) was rain by 3pm.

Georges River won the toss and sent us in on a well grassed, hard wicket. We had a slow and measured start by Gerard O’Shea alongside guest player Neville Emerson who joined us via the “Raga network”, a very extensive network as we know! Neville was first to go adjudged lbw and Gerry was joined by Frank Baliotis, resplendent in his new CCNSW long sleeve shirt. He has now worn it twice and made consecutive 30 not outs! Further steady progress was made until Gerry (23) was stumped with the score on 43. Peter Rolls and Frank both batted well and were in complete control. On Frank’s retirement at 30* ret not out, ‘the Prez’, Greg Brooks  joined the Skipper, Peter Rolls to initiate some acceleration. The fours and sixes flowed and with the ‘Prez’s’ departure (34* ret not out) Mick McCormick joined Peter who retired not long after for 31*. Garry James (30* ret not out) then strode out… (perhaps more of a shuffle with his sore knee!) and smacked it to all parts of the ground continually “encouraging” Mick to follow suit! Mick (33* ret not out) changed bats and started to find the middle with regularity.

‘The Oracle’ was only 10 minutes off and sure enough at 2:50pm we retreated to the pavilion as a thunderstorm came through with solid rain. As a result we lost three overs. John Finucane  (8*), Sittampalam Ragavan (0) and Joe Scarcella (8*)  then came out swinging on the resumption and we finished with a very healthy total of 3-218 off 37 overs.

The umpire for the day Scott did a great job in managing the break between innings. Both teams wanted to get back out there and play some cricket as the covers had done their job. A target of 219 from 37 overs was always going to be tough so getting through the first 15 overs as quickly as possible to ensure a game was our first objective.

Georges River got off to a terrible start with the opener chopping down on his stumps (hit wicket) in the first over. Joe Scarcella (3-15) and Paul Georgiadis (1-20) did all the early damage backed up by some great catches from Neville Emerson (2) and Gerry O’Shea (1). With Garry James and Greg Brooks  replacing the openers Georges River found the going tough. Six of the runs from Garry’s bowling came in one blow yet the next ball saw a smart stumping by John Finucane and GR’s best batter was on his way! From  5-58 there was no recovery but two more wickets to Garry James (3-8) , one to Greg Brooks (1-14) and a destructive 2 ball /2 wicket spell from David Craig (2-0) meant the last 5 wickets fell for nothing!!  All out 58 in 21.2 overs.

David Craig as a 58 yr old ‘youngster’, played his first Vintage competition match thanks to permission from the Vintage Association Committee (and with the consent of the Georges River captain) and he duly delivered! Excellent in the field as always and limited to a 4 over bowling, he short changed himself by needing only 2 balls to wrap it all up.

Georges River were good sports and we had a laugh and a beer to finish.

Tough matches lay ahead starting with Southern Highlands at Camperdown on Sunday February 12th, followed by Central Coast and Northern Stars to finish.

If we continue to back our batting and bowling with good fielding we can give this competition a shake!

The Team was (playing 12): – Gerard O’Shea 23, Neville Emerson 4, Frank Baliotis 30*, Peter Rolls 31*, Greg Brooks 34*, Mick McCormick 33*, Garry James 30*; John Finucane 8*, Sittampalam Ragavan 0, Joe Scarcella 8*, Paul Georgiadis dnb, David Craig dnb

The Result was: –

C.C.N.S.W.: – 3-218 (37 overs) (G. Brooks 34*; M. McCormick 33*; P. Rolls 31*; G. James 30*)

Defeated

Georges River CC: -10-58 (21.2 overs) (G. James 3-8; J. Scarcella 3-15)

By 160 runs

FoW CCNSW: – 1-18 (N. Emerson); 2-43 (G. O’Shea); 3-209 (S. Ragavan).

FoW GR: – 1-0, 2-21, 3-27, 4-31, 5-48, 6-58, 7-58, 8-58, 9-58, 10-58.

The Bowling was: – J.Scarcella 7-3-15-3; P. Georgiadis 5-0- 20-1; G. Brooks 5-1-14-1; G. James 4-2-8-3; D. Craig 0.2-0-0-2

The Fielding was: –

Stumpings: – One to J. Finucane

Catches: – One to J. Finucane (w) and two to N. Emerson and one to G. O’Shea

Run outs: – Nil

Player points (awarded by umpire): – 3 points to G. James; 2 points to G. Brooks; one point to J. Scarcella

See: https://www.playhq.com/cricket-australia/org/sydney-masters-cricket-association/vintage-summer-202223/vintage/game-centre/45652d38

C&S, Masters, Vintage

WEEK FOURTEEN: SUNDAY 8  JANUARY  2023

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CITY AND SUBURBAN ROUND 7 v SYDNEY UNIVERSITY VETERANS  AT ST PAUL’S OVAL, SYDNEY UNIVERSITY ON SUNDAY 8 JANUARY 2023 FOR THE BROOKS-MANNING-MOORHOUSE SHIELD: REPORT BY HARRY BRIDGE

CCNSW retain the Shield

Most players were excited to be playing on the picturesque St Paul’s Oval at Sydney University for the first time to defend the Brooks-Manning-Moorhouse Shield. Conditions were perfect but parking restrictions in the University grounds caused early chaos. Jim Hadley dropped a regulation catch at first slip first ball off Avinash Bhandari, who had another dropped behind in his five overs to leave him wicket less in an impressive spell. The wicket proved more conducive to spin and  the catches began to stick, seven  in all. The University Lions crumbled, with our spinners picking up a couple of wickets each with some nice variety. The Lions were all out in 31 overs for 145. 

The University Lions started their bowling strongly and rattled Tom Robertson and Rhys Longbottom with some chin music. Longbottom was caught behind for 6 off a short ball and then Robertson was yorked for 11 soon after. Karthick Subramanian was out for a duck, lured into driving a full ball early which cut in through the gate, leaving us looking precarious at 3-18. Longbottom then came on to umpire and perhaps swept up by the Lions’ momentum, gave Harry Bridge (scribe) out for a fifth ball duck, to a ball with so much bat on it (feet and pads well clear behind the ball) that the University skipper at first slip didn’t appeal. 

This left us in trouble at 4-18 in the sixth over. Fortunately we knew we had a solid batting line-up. Both Jamie  Murtha (44) and Brett  James (65*) soaked up the pressure and carried on their good form to turn the game and take us to 105 before Murtha was out for 44, with some lovely clips to the short boundary into St Paul’s college. In the end we came home comfortably in the thirtieth over with 7 down, retaining the shield and enjoying a few celebratory drinks with the opposition.

The Team was (playing 12): – Tom Robertson 11, Rhys Longbottom (w) 6, Karthick Subramanian  0, Harry Bridge 0, James Murtha 44, Brett James 65*, Peter Constantinou 6, Matthew Edge 2; Tim Litherland 4*, Adam Khamis dnb, Jim Hadley (c) dnb and Avinash Bhandari dnb

The Result was: 

Sydney University Lions: – 10-145 (31 overs) 

Lost to

C.C.N.S.W.: – 7-146 (29.2 overs) (B. James 65*; J. Murtha 44)

By 3 wickets

FoW: – 1-15 (R. Longbottom); 2-18 (T. Robertson); 3-18 (K. Subramanian); 4-18 (H. Bridge).5-105 (J. Murtha); 6-135 (P. Constantinou); 7- 139 (M. Edge)

The Bowling was: – A. Bhandari 5-0-15-0; B. James 5-1-34-1; J. Hadley 7-1-30-2; T. Litherland 7-0-22-2; A Khamis 3-0-24-1 , J. Murtha 3-0-15-2; M. Edge 1-0-3-2

The Fielding was: –

Stumpings: – Nil

Catches: – Two to H. bridge and one  to each of A. Bhandari,  H. Bridge, M. Edge, B. James, R. Longbottom (w), and  J. Murtha 

Run outs: – Nil

Player points (awarded by captain): – 3 points to B. James; 2 points to J. Murtha; one point to T. Litherland

MASTERS ROUND 7 v SCHOFIELDS CC  AT OAKVILLE RESERVE, OAKVILLE ON SUNDAY 8 JANUARY 2023  

Cancelled by rain

VINTAGE ROUND 7 v HUNTER TAVERNERS VETERANS AT CAMPERDOWN OVAL, CAMPERDOWN   ON SUNDAY 8 JANUARY 2023: REPORT BY STUART RIDGE

After a wet week, summer returned to Camperdown with a fine Sunday afternoon for cricket. The Hunter skipper won the toss and spotting a couple of damp patches from a leak in the new covers, put us in to bat.

Following a steady start from Frank Baliotis and Gerry O’Shea, that decision looked vindicated when Gerry got a couple of nasty lifters, nicking one to the keeper for 15. Joe Scarcella then joined Frank, both working the ball around well and, with good running between the wickets, put on 44 in the next 9 overs before Frank retired for a well made 30.  Without any further addition, Joe popped up a leading edge to square leg to depart for 21 to bring Greg Brooks out to join Peter Rolls as the two new batsmen. 

The skipper and president upped the run rate bringing the 100 up in the 22nd over. Brooskie in particular was looking threatening with four well struck boundaries before missing one to be bowled for 18, leaving us 3-100 in the 22nd over. Mick McCormick and Peter then added another 28 to set us up for a big total with wickets in hand and 12 overs remaining at 3-128. Looking to hit the accelerator, Peter (22) hit a glorious sweep to the long boundary but trod on his stumps in the process. 

We still had high hopes of a total close to 200 but after Mick (24) miscued to be caught, Mel Lucas (4), Garry Winney (9) and Garry James (4) quickly followed in a collapse of 4-10 to take the wind out of our sails. Stuart Ridge (11) and Paul Georgiadis (13*) eked out another 20 runs and a returning Frank Baliotis was stumped in the last over for a total of 180 all out.

While not what we had hoped, 180 was still a defendable total with a strong CCNSW bowling attack and things were looking good when Greg Brooks removed Hunter danger man Spruce leg before in his first over. Stuart Ridge was looking dangerous from the other end but the next Hunter pair were able to consolidate. 

Mick McCormick and Garry James kept things tight but were unable to dislodge a frustrating 50 partnership for the second wicket. Finally another bowling change brought the breakthrough with Paul Georgiadis picking up a wicket first ball and with the opener reaching 30* shortly afterwards, we had two fresh batsmen to bowl at. 

Hunter reached drinks at 2-82 with the game evenly poised. However, straight from the break, new bowler, Joe Scarcella jagged one back sharply to take a wicket with the first ball of his spell before Garry James deservedly struck in his last over with the help of a smart catch by Paul Georgiadis. Joe then hit the stumps again and Gerry O’Shea kept up the trend of first over wickets to leave Hunter 6-100 after 26 overs with the required run rate climbing. 

Hunter stemmed the flow of wickets but required 65 runs off the last 10 overs before some good counter attacking and a couple of expensive overs swung the pendulum back their way. Brooksie returned to break the partnership with another lbw but Hunter’s injured captain maintained the onslaught, regularly striking boundaries to spare his runner. Another retirement and late wicket to Mick McCormick brought their number 11 to the crease with 8 down and 11 needed. Stuart Ridge  came back but despite shaving both leg and off stumps could not make any further breakthrough with Hunter completing the chase with 4 balls to spare.

A lot of ifs, buts and maybes and a result to bring us down to earth in the New Year after finishing last year a couple of points off the top of the ladder. It was disappointing not to be able to defend 180 but Hunter batted well and deep. Having batters to come back makes a big difference and we definitely missed an opportunity to set a larger target with all of our top 6 making good starts  but with only one reaching retirement. 

The Team was: –  Gerard O’Shea 15, Frank Baliotis 34, Joe Scarcella 21, Peter Rolls (c) 22, Greg Brooks 18, Mick McCormick 24, Garry Winney 9, Mel Lucas 4, Garry James 4, Stuart Ridge 11, and Paul Georgiadis 13*

The Result was: –

C.C.N.S.W.: – 10-180 (39.5 overs) (F. Baliotis 34)

Lost to

Hunter Taverners: – 8-184 (39.2 overs) 

By 2 wickets

FoW: – 1-23 (G, O’Shea); 2-67 (J. Scarcella); 3-100 (G. Brooks); 4-128 (P. Rolls); 5-143 (M. McCormick); 6-148 (M. Lucas); 7-149 (G. Winney); 8-153 (G. James); 9-173 (S. Ridge); 10-180 (F. Baliotis).

The Bowling was: – M. McCormick 5.2-1-30-1; S. Ridge 6-1-15-0; G. Brooks 7-1-31-2; G. James 7-1-26-1; P. Georgiadis 2-0-14-1; J. Scarcella 6-0-24-2; G. O’Shea 5-0-30-1

The Fielding was: –

Stumpings: – Nil

Catches: – One to each of P. Georgiadis, M. Lucas and G. Winney

Run outs: – Nil

Player points (awarded by umpire): – 3 points to G. Brooks; 2 points to F. Baliotis; one point to J. ScarcellaSee: https://www.playhq.com/cricket-australia/org/sydney-masters-cricket-association/vintage-summer-202223/vintage/game-centre/0dd26857