Four on the trot for classy RSL Colts
“TO win once is great, back-to- back a tremendous effort, three-in- a-row, rare, but to take out four successive Pinnington Cup titles will take a lot of beating,” Colts’ players crowed after claiming the Dubbo District Cricket Association Second Grade title.
In a game dominated by bowlers, it was left to RSL Colts skipper Josh Smith to show how it was done.
After winning the toss, wickets fell steadily as CYMS’ rookie James Busta Nelson (3/48) and Cal Braithwaite (2/20) strangled the top order before Smith came to the crease.
Smith’s 52 allowed the defending champs to reach 155 and it came after a wonderful duel with left CYMS’ left-arm seamer Sam Knaggs and his partner, Lachie Endacott. Knaggs was rewarded with 3/25 from 13.4 overs and Lochie picked up 2.37.
Geoff Wheeler held the CYMS batting line-up to ransom on day two, taking 2/12 from 13 overs in which he grabbed the key wicket of Heath Larance for 36. Endacott completed a fine grand final with 20 towards the end however the Cougars fell 20odd runs short of their target.
Colts’ young veteran Smith completed a memorable weekend claiming his 10th straight first or second grade title with his junior club!
TOP: Colts’ batsman Jacob Coggan defends on day one. CYMS fielder Connor Watts and keeper Luke Ensor watch closely.
CENTER: CYMS’ bowler Cal Braithwaite in a classic set – seam up, eyes focussed and strong follow-through.
RIGHT: CYMS bat Graeme Allen leaves, much to the disappointment of Josh Smith (white hat) and Nathan Finlay Spinner Nathan Finlay worked up a sweat as Colts defended 155 Heath Larance showed plenty of application to top-score with 36. Young keeper Jacob Coggan is perfectly position for the grab.