CSB Division One Premiers – Murrumbeena
In a thrilling and tense Grand Final, Murrumbeena triumphed over McKinnon by 4 runs. In perfect conditions, Murrumbeena won the toss and decided to bat on day 1. The top order failed to click which saw Murrumbeena fall to 5 for 69, with only young Cooper Anstee resisting the tide with a tenacious 33. An important 56 run partnership between Alex and Xavier Ross made the score a bit more respectable. A final score of 57 by Alex, together with some late order runs by Adam Fraine saw Murrumbeena register a competitive 173. All of the McKinnon bowlers provided challenges for the batsmen. Wade King bowled a typical fiery and sustained spell, while the pick of the bowlers was Ulricht van Duyker with 4 for 35 off 28 overs.
McKinnon started their innings on day 2 and were travelling comfortably at 2 for 100. All of the top order contributed without going on to make a big score. A couple of crucial catches gave Murrumbeena some reason to hope. After 37 runs by Lee Weiss and 34 by Wade King, the middle order was being held together by Ulricht van Duyker, who completed a solid all round performance before being dismissed for 32. Small partnerships down the order saw the McKinnon total approach their goal. Hard-hitting Vishva Weerakoon posed a threat before being the last man dismissed with the McKinnon score on 169. Highlights on the bowling front were the 6 for 68 off 31 overs by man-of-the-match, Tej Gandhi, supported by a strong spell from Troy Ryan.
Congratulations to both teams for strong seasons and providing such an exciting climax.
CSB Division 1 Premiers for Season 2023-24: Murrumbeena