By Steve Doble

The C-grade Muddies had a good chance of winning last Sunday’s 30/30 match against United at Cazaly’s, but went down despite playing the majority of the match as the better team.

Sent in to bat, the Muddies received their preferred option to get the runs on the board and defend their total, although with both openers back in the shade contributing a combined 10 runs, sundries were already playing a part and at that point had contributed a further 11.

Matt Muller looked surprised by his promotion to number three batsman and was looking confident in the role on eight runs, finding the gaps for twos before being one of the six batsmen dismissed caught.

It was a welcome return to have Simeon Miglioranza in the team and he did not disappoint, attacking with 19 runs in five overs.

Grant Law (25 runs of 70 contributed whilst at the crease) also returned and was watchful in steadying the ship for 16 overs, combining with Darren Saint (17) in a partnership of 43. Hilditch was presented with the need to quickly build runs with only seven overs left and, he too, fired off some great shots for seven in a fast partnership of 15, defiant against the improvement in line and length bowling by United at this stage of the match.

Pinch-hitter Ryan managed 10 off the first over he faced, and was dismissed in the second, the Muddies finishing their 30 overs at 9/125.

New Muddies recruit, Kerrod Andrews, is bound to be given more opportunity next week after being 0 not out, facing 0 balls, although his fielding was a highlight, showing skill and agility that unfortunately was not enough on its own to turn the match.

The Muddies got early wickets, Walz opened 2-12 off 6, Ryan 1/25 off 6 with United going to drinks at 3/44 off 15, but with Laghari and Martin set, they returned and managed the run a ball ask, although (on holidays from Tassie) Muddies veteran Scheiser (3/17 off 6), removed Laghari for 42 with United still needing 15 off 5 overs.

A couple of dropped catches off Martin (53no) when the score was closer to 100 may have been the best chance Muddies had of winning, as United had plenty of inexperience to come, but it was not to be and Muddies relented losing the match despite probably playing the better two-thirds of the battle.

Sometimes it makes us wonder as cricketers why we come back, but we always do: a love for the game, contributing in a team and the overall challenge.

Back at our picturesque home ground this Sunday versus Mulgrave Pujabi, starting 12.30pm.  All are welcome, the canteen will be open and there’s plenty of shade on the hill and a welcome breeze to enjoy the one day 30/30 game.

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