Collaroy Under 13s Flash vs St A

St Augustine's were, in their defense, somewhat depleted, fielding only 8 players (thanks go to our boys who helped out in the field for the opposition) and unready until 8:40 to begin what had to be a reduced 25 over 1 day match. But what ensued was a great mix of impressive debut from the four new players in the team, and a terrific return to form from the team who played in division 1 last year.

After winning the toss, Liam elected to bat and opened with David. He was bowled by an excellent leg break in the 2nd over, but David and Zain soon took control in a partnership that lasted 14 overs and progressed the Plateau from 1 for 4 to 1 for 56.

David retired on 28 having done a purposeful job with the new ball for 10 overs, then opening his shoulders for the next five with a series of blistering pulls and drives through mid-wicket and mid-on. Zain settled straight into the number 3 role, matching solid defense with the ability to turn the strike over with quick singles, until he became undone and was run out for 9.

Brodie and Chris D had a partnership just like David and Zain's, with Brodie expertly steering singles on both sides of the wicket (as well as adding a boundary of his own) and Chris finding wonderful touch so early on in the season as he sped to 41 in just seven overs, only to eventually be caught as he aimed for another 4. Brodie ended the innings 16 not out, looking like he could go on to score his maiden 50 if time had been on his side and with Jordan holding up the other end for the last couple of overs.

St Augustine's were bowled out for 16 inside 10 overs, which was particularly disappointing for me, as I'd wanted to see every player bowl. Jeremy opened with pace and accuracy that recalled why he had opened bowling all last season in division 1, and took 2-1 in 2 overs. At the other end, Daniel (making a welcome return to the team) showed the welcome ability to move the ball both ways, and befuddled three batsmen, only one of them able enough to give a straight-forward enough catching chance to be out.

Matt replaced Jeremy and hit his strides straight away, taking wickets with the 3rd and 4th balls of his first over (but not quite able to get the hat-trick!), and ended his two overs with 3 for 3! Chris Rudder bowled an over from each end, and discovered he preferred the second, sending down a maiden, while Chadd started this season just like the last two, bowling an impeccable line and length and being almost impossible to get away safely. He ended the game with the last wicket, taking 2 for 1 in 10 balls.

Every single player paid an important part in this game. The teams we will play from here will be better organised, so we mustn't be lulled into a false sense of security, but this was a great start. Bring on the 2 days games and let's go for some outrights!