BEST OF GOLDY ASHES: DAY ONE
THE Sub Parks Redbacks inspired Malchek’s XI overcame a player shortage on Friday to go undefeated on the first day of the Goldfield Ashes A competition in 2022.
The 2018 event champions are on their way to contesting the tournament’s cash prize on Sunday, defeating Herbert River and the Norths-flavoured Relda’s Homegrown XI in back-to-back 20-over games.
The win over Herbert River may come to be a signature moment for the campaign for Malchek’s, which could not field a full team due to work commitments.
With just nine players in the batting line-up skipper Chris Gartrell’s influential 28 was the difference in steering his team over the line.
“That was the standout performance of the first game,” Mitch Rawlins said.
“Chris got 28 and was taken off a blinder (catch) but he was looking to make some runs for us.
“He got us over the line.
We do have a good rivalry Mitch Rawlins
“Bowling, Matty Twomey only bowled two overs but he didn’t go for many and got us the key wicket.”
Malchek’s backed up the morning win with another over Relda’s, which went down to the final delivery.
A desperate run-out attempt was foiled when the stumps were collected without the ball, leaving the Townsville side to pass the total at 7-130.
Losing captain Cody Sadler said it was a loss he hoped to avenge in the decider.
“It was a beautiful day and a good game of cricket and all the boys had a good time,” he said.
“If we can get there (to the final) we’re good enough to win.
“We like those boys so it would be a good game.”
Conditions were pleasant as Charters Towers in January goes, with overcast skies shielding players from heat that reached 34C when the sun broke through.
Not even those moments could spoil the atmosphere for cricketers waiting to return to the town for the first time in two years.
“It was actually really good,” said Rawlins, who plays for Brothers in the Townsville competition.
“If you look at the makeup of team we’re Brothers and Bubs so we do have good rivalry with Norths. Getting the win (against them) made it even more special.”
The Bulletin’s survey for the best team names at the Ashes has produced some early standouts.
99 Problems But A Pitch Ain’t One, named for the 2004 Jay Z single, has won early support alongside the Dreaded Creeping Bumrash – which we hope has been checked by a doctor.