PNBHS 1st XI Cricket VS Wellington College Traditional – 2 Day Match
Day 1 Having lost the toss, the PNBHS team was happy to be asked to bat on
another hot day. The batsmen made a slow start as the Wellington College
bowlers extracted the most from the pitch and a wicket in the 4th
over exacerbated matters. Nevertheless, after a period of consolidation and
having seen off the new ball, scoring became easier. After an 86-run second
wicket partnership, Curtis Heaphy joined Jaden Meyer and they were able to
accelerate until, with the 60-over declaration looming, Meyer perished hitting
out. Heaphy was able to marshal the incoming batsmen to take the team to 240
for 5 when the compulsory declaration came. Lachie Bradford made 36, Jaden
Meyer 79 and Curtis Heaphy 74 not out. A fiery spell from the Boys’ High opening bowlers had the Wellington
batsmen reaching for the ball and looking edgy. A wicket in the 6th
over energised the fielders and the pressure was kept up, Astute bowling
changes led to regular wickets falling as Wellington finished the day on 115
for 5 from 35 overs, Angus Lyver took 2 for 17.
Day 2
Resuming on 115 for 5, Wellington batted for 11 overs in the morning, adding 30 runs for the loss of 2 wickets before declaring at 145 for 7, 95 runs in arrears. Hunter Morrison took 2 for 28 and Angus Lyver finished with 3 for 21.
Taking up the challenge of a “sporting” declaration, the PNBHS batsmen started positively but were soon set on their heels as 2 early wickets fell. After a period of consolidation, the “long handle” was again in play, leading to quick runs but also quick wickets. A number of batsmen “died by the sword” but the goal was achieved as the team set Wellington a target of 221 to be achieved in 2 hours and 40 minutes. 125 all out with Angus Lyver scoring a quick-fire 22, Curtis Heaphy 27 and Jaiden Meyer 31.
The Wellington batsmen showed a willingness to chase the target, but tight, hostile bowling soon had them reeling at 40 for 5. They then decided to “shut-up-shop" and defended their way to 118 for 6 before a draw was agreed upon after 38 overs. Angus Lyver took 2 for 29 and Hunter Morrison 2 for 23.
Overall, PNBHS had the better of the game and can feel satisfied with their efforts over the 2 days.
Pictured:
1. Curtis Heaphy and the Wellington College captain at the toss.
2. Josh Campbell receiving his cap from Mr Noema-Barnett
3. 1st XI Cricket team and the sponsors who were present on Sunday for the Sponsors BBQ
4. Steve Dooley from Altherm Window Systems
