Brothertons clinch first Salem title in two decades
The Brothertons, who were the runners-up in 2018, ended a lengthy wait for the Salem Family six-a-side cricket title when they defeated the Hobsons in a sensational finish to the biennial tournament, sponsored by Kelston Motor Group, on Saturday.
There was no event last year because of the pandemic.
Batting first, the Hobsons put together a challenging total of 55, leaving their opponents 56 to win in their five overs.
In a thrilling run-chase, in which the fortunes fluctuated from side to side, the final boiled down to the last two balls bowled by Joe from which the Brothertons needed eight runs.
It was then that Buster, who also organised the tournament, stepped up to the plate and smashed a full toss onto the clubhouse roof, leaving them two runs short of the promised land with the final ball to be bowled.
A better delivery by Joe saw Buster push the ball to deep midwicket and the batsmen scrambled through for two runs, narrowly beating the throw to the bowler’s end to give them the title for the first time since 1999.
It was a fitting finale to another wonderful day of country cricket, in which the camaraderie among the players and spectators was as important as the competitive spirit shown on the field of play.
There were several nervous moments for the Brothertons before they topped their group because earlier they needed eight runs from two balls to beat the Wilmots.
After a four off the penultimate delivery, Nic struck the last ball high to long-on, but the catch was spilt and the ball went from the fielder’s hands over the boundary to give the Brothertons a dramatic win.
The Hobsons did well in their pool matches, winning all three to qualify for the final, in which they were chasing their seventh title.
There was a moment of history, too, when Megan Emslie became the first female to take part in the event after an injury in the opening game left the Emslies one short.
A talented sportswoman, Meghan, who has played cricket for Border women, proved more than capable in the two matches she played
She joined her father Andrew, uncle Michael and brother William in the side. The awards were: Champions: Brothertons; runners-up: Hobsons
Ian Long trophy for best bowler: Nic Brotherton 4/35 in 4 overs
Best batting performance: William Emslie 52
Batting award: Buster Brotherton 106 runs
Gary Emslie award (for commitment and support of the event): David Emslie