Toowoomba dominates Logan in Cup opener
CRICKET: Toowoomba has stamped its authority on the Plunkett Cup with a resounding defeat of Logan at the weekend.
The Downs side was in full control of their eastern rivals, dismissing Logan for 180 before chasing down the total with seven wickets and more than 24 overs to spare.
Southern Districts all-rounder Aaron Paul and University opener Tully Willson led the way in a dominating team performance.
Paul finished with 2/30 with the ball, taking both his wickets in the 15th over to give Toowoomba the upper hand, and chipping in with 38 runs of his own.
The University skipper led from the front with the bat, scoring an unbeaten 71 from 72 deliveries to never have the result in any doubt.
Coach Anthony Nunn commended the variety in the bowling attack in restricting Logan to just 180 from 44 overs, with eight bowlers used and six picking up wickets.
“Logan started well with the bat but we pegged them back in the middle and end overs,” Nunn said.
“The two wickets from Aaron set it up with a few quick ones and helped us to get a bit more momentum with the ball.
“It’s good to have those options with the ball. We had a few more that we could use in the next game.
“We bowled a few too many extras (26 wides) and that’s something to work on for next time, but we took some really sharp chances in the field.”
Nunn said that strong platform allowed them to secure the total with ease.
“When you’re chasing a score you’re comfortable of getting you don’t have to take as many risks,” he said.
“The top order set a good platform and Tully was really impressive. He set us up with the bat, and Sam (Neale) batted really good as well.”
Their next Plunkett Cup fixture takes place on December 16 when they host Queensland Sub Districts, and Nunn said they had the potential to go all the way.
“They’re confident with how they’ll go. A lot of sides can be dictated with player availability so we’re not sure who we’re playing before we get there,” he said.
“Regardless of who we play, if we’re not winning it, we’ll be going a long way towards it.”
Photo: Nev Madsen