An unfortunate washout for third grade at Camperdown Oval was the only thing between SUCC and a clean sweep against North Sydney today in the opening round of the McDonald's Grade Competition for 2015/16.
A captains' knock of 72 runs from Nick Larkin and a brisk 58no from Ed Cowan set up a competitive total of 4-216 from a reduced 37 overs. The bowlers then put the screws on the North Sydney top order with light being called at 4-171 with four overs left to score 45 runs. Ben Joy, Jonte Pattison and Nigel Cowell claimed one wicket each. Sydney Uni claiming the win on Duckworth-Lewis.
A sensational batting display by Mark Faraday (92) ably supported by Ben Larkin (75), Max Hope (30no) and Steve Hobson (22no) put a dominant 2-244 from 45 overs on the board. Light was called with North Sydney on 9-167 from 40.2 overs and another easy Duckworth Lewis victory. Skipper Tom Kierath claimed 4-28 whilst Joe Kershaw eased back into bowling with 3-25.
A solid team performance by AJ Grant's fourth grade side saw them post a daunting total of 6-323 from their allotted 50 overs. Jack Holloway compiled a classy 74 runs whilst Grant and youngster Ryan Danne contributed 51 runs towards the total. Kieran Tate lead the attack claiming 3-62 from his 9 overs to have North Sydney all out for 216 runs.
With an unusual opportunity to play on Uni No. 1 Oval, fifth grade hit the ground running after a late start. With a number of debutants donning the baggy blue & gold cap for the first time, Michael Counsell (2-19) and youngster, Jack Gibson (4-9) demonstrated the depth of the club. Liam Whitaker chimed in with 2-5 to see North Sydney all out for 42 runs. Skipper Mike Harris (13no) and big-hitting Jarrod Waterlow (24no) saw the team home 2 wickets down and with a bonus point in the bag. Don't forget that the saved Livestream video is available through the website (click the Round One Livestream link).
Unfortunately our talented third grade side, and our young Metro Cup team were forced to abandon their matches.
Despite this, SUCC made a brilliant start to the Club Championship claiming just shy of 100 points towards the ultimate prize. We will be looking to continue that performance against reigning Club Champions, Manly away in round two.
Keep an eye out early in the week for our new Performances of the Round segment.