Buln Buln claim win with final wicket salvo
Eastwell (three) were the key scalps to claim and their lack of runs threatened to derail the Lyrebirds chase.
Walsh’s fluent 62 took them close to their target, but it was left to Jackson Noonan and Ricky McKerrow to be heroes for Buln, snatching victory in the 80th over of their chase following a tense last-wicket stand.
Dale Weller (who finished with the sensational figures of 3-59 from his 30.2 overs) was at his usual best with the ball, and Jack Lucas (2-35) chipped in impressively with the newball, but despite their efforts Buln were able to snatch victory at the death.
Kangas win through
Hallora (246) def. Western Park (141): Not even a Sam Batson seven-wicket haul could prevent Hallora from making their way to yet another division one grand final, with the Kangaroos depth with bat and ball simply too much for the Warriors to overcome.
The Warriors star pace-bowler was at his very best in the first half of the day – and the Halloran top order could do little to resist, let alone fight back, but once James Vela made his way to the crease Batson’s efforts were curbed.
Building his innings in impressive fashion, Vela saw off some initial hostility before branching out once settled at the crease.
Striking a multitude of boundaries against the change bowlers, Vela’s knock of 89 proved to the difference between the two sides.
Mawgan Penrice’s innings of 37 was also crucial in Hallora’s ability to post a strong first-innings total, and James Williams’ contribution of 22 was also valuable.
Batson snared 7-70 from his 25 overs, and Tyler McDonald claimed 256, but despite their best efforts Hallora still made their way to 246.
In reply, Sam Russell’s poor run of form continued – trapped in front by Aiden Phillips n the first over of the innings – and Kim Drew (11), Tyler McMillan (11), Sanjaya Gangodawila (nought) and Sam Batson (six) quickly followed.
From then on there was little doubt about who would emerge victorious, and Ryan Williams (3-35 from 18), Simon Phillips (1-17 off 13), and Sam Whibley (2-33) combined to dismiss the Warriors for 141.
Grand Final: Buln Buln vs. Hallora – A grand final preview will be posted to the Warragul District Cricket Association website later this week.