RECORD: 307 runs in 1919-20 by Ray Boyce (192) / Les Donovan (166) for (Sydney) University 9-420 declared against Central Cumberland 181 & 6-145 at Parramatta Oval in round 4 on 8 November 1919.
In perfect cricket conditions, Central Cumberland skipper Gar Waddy lost the toss and was forced to field first. But with University on the back foot at 4-58, it looked as though it was a good toss to lose. However, that was the last of the smiles for the bowlers who toiled under heavy punishment over the following two hours. During that time, 307 runs were added with Ray Boyce smashing 192 in just 150 minutes hitting 30 fours and a six. At the other end, Les Donovan made 166 in 135 minutes including 24 boundaries of which six came in successive balls from NSW representative cricketer, Harold Cranney. The Referee mid-week sporting newspaper reported that “Both played delightful and exhilarating cricket in appreciation of which the fielding side joined as heartily as the spectators.” Despite the onslaught, one of the more amazing statistics was that there were just three extras–all leg byes– in the final tally of 9-420 declared.
