By David Marshall
It was grand final day for Wandin’s first XI, taking on Ainslie Park, and with the season on the line, the team was ready to give it everything.
The day started positively, with Wandin winning the toss and electing to bat first on a hot and demanding afternoon.
Bryce Edwards and Jamie Atkinson got the innings underway, but the big opening partnership wasn’t to be, as Bryce lost his wicket early with the score on 21.
This brought Dave Marshall to the crease, and together with Jamie, the pair steadied the innings, building a 50 plus run partnership that gave Wandin some early stability.
Jamie was looking strong, falling just short of a half-century with a well made 48, while Dave contributed a solid 21 before being dismissed at 78/2.
Unfortunately, from that point on, Wandin struggled to build momentum, as regular wickets fell against a disciplined bowling and fielding unit.
Runs were hard to come by, and despite some resistance from the lower order, the innings never quite found its rhythm.
Taylan Hall (31no) provided some late fight, pushing Wandin to a final total of 145, which was below par but still something to defend.
With 11 overs left to bowl on the first day, Wandin knew they needed early wickets to put pressure on the opposition.
The bowlers responded well, keeping things tight, and it was Taylan Hall who delivered.
With an outstanding spell of 2/8 off 6 overs, he snagged two crucial wickets, giving Wandin a much-needed lift heading into the second day and having Anslie Park at 2/21.
Unfortunately, Sunday was washed out, meaning the grand final will now continue next weekend.
With one day left to decide the season, Wandin’s bowlers will need to step up in the ultimate test.
2nd XI Grand Final Postponed:
The 2nd XI’s grand final was called off due to weather, and the match has been shifted to next weekend.
With another week to prepare, the team will be raring to go as they look to finish the season on top.
Looking Ahead: One Final Push for Premiership Glory.
After a long season, it all comes down to one last weekend.
The 1st XI will resume their grand final defence, needing their bowlers to deliver under pressure, while the 2nd XI will finally take the field to battle for their own premiership.
