ON THIS DAY - 9th April
Armidale Waratahs (The Tahs) | April 10, 2024
In 1960, Waratahs won their first B grade title and only Waratahs second premiership, when they defeated Public Service in an absolute nail biter. B grade was played as one day games in the 1950's but after flogging Dumaresq in the semi, this one was epic. Waratahs had a splendid attack, led by Col Marshall, whose five wickets gave him 60 for the season. Their three outstanding all rounders - John McIntyre, Laurie Blake and Bob Brennan - were also on the money. It could have been so much easier after Public Service were reduced to 8-72 but Neely stood with Wetherill and roused his sides hopes. Wetherill and Baker then bowled virtually unchanged as Waratahs chase ebbed and flowed as wickets kept falling at regular intervals. Skipper McIntyre held the line, taking his season tally beyond 400 but when Wetherill claimed him Waratahs still needed seven. With only the inexperienced Dick Russell left to bat and the unpredictable John Russell at the other end, things looked dire. Dick was batting last behind both John and the record holder for ducks in a season Nixon ... not a great endorsement for Waratahs chances. His first ball was snicked through slips at catchable height, ending the over. John then played at air for four balls from Wetherill before sending an inside edge past the keeper and down to the boundary for the premiership.
