Players, coaches, and supporters from Marist and Eaton gathered at Forrest Park to celebrate new beginnings for South West cricket.
On Sunday morning, both teams clashed in round one of the 2018/19 Bunbury and Districts Cricket Association women’s league.
Marist and Eaton are two of the five teams involved in this inaugural women’s competition.
After winning the toss and heading out to the crease, Marist was enthusiastic about its chances.
Blues opening batsman Katie Ernst got her side off to a great start, knocking 19 runs off 14 balls including four fours.
After Ernst was caught by Kristylee Martin, fellow opener Ebony Bilcich remained at the crease.
Bilcich starred for the side, knocking 22 not out off 14, including four fours, before being forced to retire.
Sari Wootton kept the run rate up with 16 off 24, while Kloe Basset (6) was caught and bowled by Holly Toy (2/18 from three overs).
Siobhan Darlow had a better time at the crease, knocking 13 off 19 before being run out.
Wicketkeeper Ally Clarke-Dehring (19 off 27, two fours) and captain Jessica Barton (19 off 21, two fours) worked to increase Marist’s total.
Hoy came to Eaton’s rescue by taking her second wicket and sending Barton back to the clubrooms.
After taking two catches, Martin (1/7 from two overs) began her turn with the ball.
She claimed her first wicket for the year by dismissing Kelly Bastow for one.
Marist applauded as Ebony Buck hit 13 off 25 late in the inning.
The Blues were satisfied after their 30 overs, setting Eaton a target of 8/175.
Eaton started its inning full of promise, with opener Jacinta Walton hitting 10 off 27 in her 29 minutes at the crease.
Marist claimed its first wicket after Bilcich caught Amber King for nine.
Bilcich’s second catch dismissed Tanya Sims (7 off 21), stranding Eaton on 3/43.
Bastow starred with the ball and collected 4/5 from two overs.
The Blues raved as Bastow bowled Jenna Harrington for five and Patricia Wilson for a duck in quick succession.
With Eaton in trouble on 5/47, Toy hit the crease determined to get her side back on track.
It was not to be, with Toy caught by Kloe Bassett for six following impressive bowling from Ella Smith.
Bastow claimed Michelle Johnson as her fifth scalp, before Candice Dahlstrom (2/11 from four overs) bowled Martin for 11.
Emily Wilson caught and bowled Jasmine Peterson near the end of the day, dismissing Eaton for 80.
Round two – on Sunday, November 11 – will see Colts take on Hay Park at Bunbury Recreation Ground.
Leschenault will then face Marist in Leschenault.
Read more:
