PLAYING in their last game for the season, the under 12 Astute Financial Muddies finished with their best performance of the season, losing by 47 runs against Mareeba at Mossman State High School.

The young bucks had 10 players of their own team for the first time this season, meaning that no players from the opposing team were filling in, meaning that whatever they did on the field they could own as their own. 

Daniel Twomey has shown good success with calling the toss correctly as of late, showing promise for two-up games on future Anzac Days. Choosing to field first, Lochie Nash and Lachlan Batterham opened the bowling. Nashy had a few looseners but soon held the dewy ball across the seam and immediately found his line and length. The little Batterham brother supported Nashy well and soon claimed the first wicket of the day, claiming his first bowled wicket in the process – Mareeba 1 for 14 after 4.

Ethan Scott and Caleb Wilson then joined the attack in a solid bowling partnership. Ethan picked up a wicket after a comfortable catch to Daniel Twomey. Eli Smith and Finn V bowled well but were bowling to the big middle order after the Mareeba opener retired. Big Angus Campman came out swinging hard across the line, but Finn had his measure and should have had him caught twice in the same over but for two missed chances through the hands in the outfield. Finn still managed to claim two wickets (with another catch to Daniel) with his two overs though. Mareeba 4 – 64 after 12. Banjo Jenkins and Daniel Twomey took up the attack either side of drinks with tight bowling but no wickets to their name. Angus and Hamish bowled well with Angus getting good shape on the ball, but they couldn’t break through the solid Mareeba batting. After the boys had bowled their third overs, providing multiple chances of run outs and catches but to no avail, Mareeba finished at 4 for 157 from their 27 overs.

The brothers V opened the batting but the partnership faltered with Finn being removed third ball. Eli also decided to join Finn back on the sideline after only three balls as well. Ethan then steadied the ship with Angus who hit a cracking four, but then popped up a high bouncing floater to be caught. Daniel, Banjo and Ethan all then fell in quick succession creating panic in the Astute Muddies quarters. The constant practice at home paid off for the Batterham brothers who then slowed the wickets and increased the run rate.

Lachlan Batterham was removed for 6 which saw newcomer Caleb join Hamish at the crease. The had a long stand with Hamish providing good calling and running between wickets to see Caleb face 15 balls before losing his wicket. Hamish retired for 26 in a solid innings. Lochie Nash looked in great touch and unfortunately fell to a tidy catch off a great looking shot for 3. At this point the Astute Muddies were 9 for 90. Hamish then returned to the crease with second round effort from Finn. They were running well but Finn was again removed without scoring, Angus then then 5 for runs before being removed and Eli turned the strike over with Hamish. The older Batterham then proceeded to belt his was past his previous best score to see him make 37. At the end of the game, the Muddies finished at 110 from their 27 overs, their highest score of the season without any players from any other team. It was a great way to finish off what has been a successful season for the Muddies.

The boys will be back bigger and stronger next season. They will be a force to be reckoned with next season with their first season of cricket under their belts.

A massive thank you goes to Dee Vikionkorpi for scoring through the season, Greg Batterham for helping at training and on games days, Ben Jenkins for the arm he provided in throw downs for the boys, and to all the parents for allowing their kids to play cricket for the Astute Muddies. I look forward to seeing you all next season.