Minnett and JPD Show Not Enough for Firsts

First Grade endured a tough day at the office at Cromer Park on Saturday, suffering a 71 run defeat in their one-dayer against Cromer.

Cromer captain Scott Kenna won the toss and elected to bat. He would have been fairly happy with his decision as he proceeded to belt 68 off 74 including some massive 6’s. The Plateau missed an opportunity to send him packing early with an unfortunate dropped catch in slips. Nirav Patel, returning from shires, bowled some handy off spinners and was able to finally have Kenna dismissed. Scott Waygood was able to continue the route, hitting 71 off 63 balls. James Price found some late form to take 2 consecutive wickets, but unfortunately he was unable to complete a hattrick. CPCC were set a tough total of 220 to chase off their 35 overs. Wicket takers included Pricey; 2/48 off 5, Nirav; 2/42 off 5 and Lachlan Johnson; 1/31 off 7.

The Plateau’s opening combination of captain Rob Minnett and Jeff Porter-Denning started brilliantly. They scored freely and looked in control – Minnett’s trademark paddle shot was in full swing as he belted 4 sixes in his 67. The fantastic partnership was finally broken with the score at 108. Hopes faded as 6 wickets fell for just 19 runs. JPD’s great innings ended at 40. There was no coming back from there as CPCC were bowled out for a disappointing 149.

Next week First Grade faces off against Harbord Bowling at Harbord Park in another one-dayer.

Scorecard here

FIRST GRADE NEED PLAYERS — IF YOU ARE KEEN AND AVAILABLE, CALL ROB ON 0412 158 959 AND/OR REGISTER HERE