Presentations precede the Prunes
On a beautiful April Sunday, the Kaipaki nation gathered at Kaipaki Oval for the final fixture of the 2021-22 season, taking on the Parnell Prunes, with some special pre-game presentations.
Mark Dutton was presented with his 10-game cap after making his debut last season while Kaipaki legends Wayne “Big Red Dog” Clifford, Taz Kapadia and Darrin “Bones” Armstrong all received their 50-game badges.
Kaipaki batted first and at the top of the order the experience of Armstrong, Hiki Toroa and Kapadia came through with all three batsmen making 21. Armstrong did have time, though, to hit an impressive six onto the tennis courts.
Unfortunately, the experience didn’t help Leon Holden and Clifford as they both failed to challenge the scorers.
Holden, in fact, was bowled twice in two balls, but the first one was off a free hit from a no ball.
The innings was held together by young Trent Butler. Butler received the Kaipaki Gold best team person of the year award, and was consistent all regular season, both with bat and ball.
On Sunday, it was with the bat in hand as Butler smashed the Parnell bowling attack to all parts of his beloved Kaipaki Oval, during an exceptionally well-made 47.
Another to chip in was Sean Gutry, who was Kaipaki’s most improved cricketer for the club this season.
The Kaipaki nation made 155/9 in their 20 overs.
When it came to the Parnell Prunes’ turn to bat, Kaipaki opened the bowling with Dutton who was returning from injury and also fizzing after his cap presentation.
At the other end was Sarah Laing, who has quickly become an important member of the Kaipaki nation family.
The Parnell Prunes got off to a flyer. Josh Rush took an important wicket and went for only 14 runs off his allotted overs.
The other wicket-takers were Gutry with his well-directed right-arm off-spinners and Kaipaki legend Kapadia.
The Prunes got home losing only three wickets and with one over to spare.
This game is an annual fixture on the Kaipaki nation’s calendar and the Prunes are a side they always enjoy hosting.
A great wrap to a magnificent season for the Kaipaki nation.