Match Report: UTS North Sydney vs Western Suburbs Second Grade T20
UTS North Sydney District Cricket Club | December 28, 2024
UTS North Sydney stamped their authority on the match from the very start, as captain Glenn Aitken won the toss and confidently chose to bat first.
His decision was vindicated with a commanding performance that saw North Sydney dominate with both bat and ball to secure a clinical victory over Western Suburbs.
North Sydney’s put on a batting masterclass from the very beginning. Both openers rose to the occasion, with positive contributions. Jack Felian set the tone as an opening batter, scoring a quality 30 that featured a mix of stylish strokes and aggressive intent, especially with his running. His effort laid the groundwork for Harri Lee Young, who took the game away from Western Suburbs with a powerful 65. Lee Young’s commanding knock was filled with big hits (3 massive bombs!) and precise placement, as he dominated the opposition bowling attack.
Harri Lee Young.
The middle order provided valuable contributions to ensure a strong finish. Surrey representative Adam Thomas and wicket-keeper John Nevell both smashed fast-paced twenties, with boundaries flowing freely. Adam was a fluent and stylish as ever, unfortunately being dismissed by a diving boundary catch. Nevell, who remained unbeaten on 25, displayed exceptional skill, particularly with his innovative sweep shots against the fast bowlers. They both propelled North Sydney to a competitive total of 5-158. A score that was well above par.
Defending their total, North Sydney’s were confident and the opening bowlers took control of the game right from the start. Dan Allsop and Sol Balbi bowled excellent opening spells, picking up early wickets keeping the run rate in check.
Daniel delivered one of the standout performances of the match, an exceptional spell that could have seen him with at least four wickets. He finished with figures of 2/19 from his four overs. His accuracy and work off the seam that build pressure were instrumental in dismantling the Western Suburbs batting lineup.
Jack Feilen.
Harry Gardner was equally effective, claiming crucial top-order wickets with his well-controlled bowling. Harry’s bowling was exceptional finishing with 2-16 off his four, seeing him selected for First Grade in Dubbo the following day.
Adam Thomas showcased his versatility and skill with excellent 20/20 bowling. He gave a tidy and economical spell despite being unlucky not to claim a wicket.
Shrey Parsania and Dylan Mares continued the spin dominance in the middle overs, with Shrey taking two wickets to tighten North Sydney’s grip on the match. Dylan’s contribution in the field was equally remarkable, producing a stunning direct-hit run-out with only one stump to aim at, further emphasising the team’s sharpness in the field.
Dan Allsopp.
From the captain’s winning toss to the final wicket, North Sydney delivered a performance that was nothing short of dominant. Harri Lee Young’s batting heroics, Daniel’s commanding bowling, and Dylan’s outstanding fielding headlined a day where every player contributed to a well-rounded team victory.
- Images: Tony Johnston & Adam Cavenor; Words: Glenn Aitken.
