On a glorious Saturday afternoon, the "A-Team" registered a hard fought 17 run win against a brave Old Melbournian line up that fought gamely to the last. On Sunday the Celebrities won handsomely by 7 wickets out at Barkers Road against Old Xavier to make it a wonderful weekend for the club.
Winning the toss, the A-Team lost Melville early for 2, but that was the last uncomfortable moment as Matt Mitchell and Sam Shearer tore into the bowling and put on an 88 run partnership, when Mitchell was dismissed for 36, and the score 2 for 91. Tom Murray joined Shearer and the great batting continued. At 145, Shearer was dismissed for a majestic 72. Murray followed soon after for 30 and the score now 4 for 148.
Tim Hosking and Seb Armstrong attacked at every opportunity and raised the score to 4 for 211 at the close. Hosking finished 49 not out, while Armstrong was unbeaten on 11.
With the ball, Will Hays has unusually been subdued this season and was yet to take a wicket. Hays bowled extremely well with the new ball, beating the bat, finding the edge, but the chances dropping short of the slip cordon, and a top edge that sat up for seemingly an eternity, but ultimately fell safely. Hays could well have been forgiven for believing this was not his day.
Old Melbournians after a shaky start, batted well, before finally, Will Bonwick gained the break through with the score on 65. Old Melbournians fought on, and despite the regular fall of wickets, got closer and closer to the target. Then it happened. Will Hays broke through for his first wicket for the summer amid scenes of jubilation coupled with relief. With both arms raised in the air like a victorious prized fighter, Haysy announced to the cricketing world that he was back! After a gutsy chase, Old Melbournians fell 17 runs short in an entertaining game.
On Sunday over on Barkers Road, the Celebrities had an easier time against perennial rivals Old Xavier, to record a convincing 7 wicket victory. Bowling first, Old Scotch restricted the Xav's batsmen to a sub par 116. Summerfield and Meggitt, as they have done all summer, bowled beautifully to take 2/26 and 3/23 respectively. The batsman made steady progress to the target and victory was secured with nearly 6 overs to spare. Hayden Tilbrook top scored with 29 and Ollie McLeish contributed a fine 26 not out.
Next week, the "A-Team" take on Old Geelong at home, while The Celebrities take on MCC1 at Smith reserve, Parkville Come along and support the boys in the last game before Christmas. It is always welcomed.
In the mean time...