The Sheraton Five Stars took out the inaugural Muddies T20 Big Bash in an entertaining game at the Mud Pit last Friday night over the red hot favourite’s IGA Tavern Bandits who had progressed through the round games undefeated and unchallenged.

The Bandits batted first and would have been looking to score in excess of 130 to really put the pressure on the chasing Sheraton team.  Once again the luck of the draw determined the batting order as had previously been a successful strategy.  The Bandits started strongly and were 1 for 38 off six overs and looking to be in a good position with Dallas (22), John (23) and Buckey (17) making solid contributions.

However four scores of one and another four in single digits hamstrung the IGA and they ended up all out for 98.  Tight bowling and sensational catching were the key for the Five Stars with Brian again taking match best figures of 3 for 6 off his two overs.  Luca (2 for 6), Redfern (2 for 16) and Brad (2 for 13) all did the damage to the IGA batting lottery.

The Sheraton team approached the chase with confidence with Steve (18) and Butterss combining for a second wicket stand of 50 with Butterss hitting the Bandits to all parts and retiring on 37.  He was later joined in the sheds by the in-form Redfern (26) and Goodo (35), sealing the game in the 12th over.  

The usually solid fielding unit of the Bandits went missing for the big game with some dropped opportunities letting the Five Stars batsmen get away.  This poor fielding was highlighted after hard working captain Bully was on a hat-trick after some electric wicket keeping from Weary, taking a sharp catch after a great stumping.  Luka popped a sitter to Niko who in turn dropped the rare opportunity for his skipper, ensuring a long run of shouted drinks in the coming months.

The inaugural Port Douglas Cricket Club T20 competition was a great success and will return bigger and better in 2014.  The organisers would like to thank the players, spectators and volunteers who made the season such a showcase for social cricketers in the local area.