Cricket island style

By SBLT Jodie Wilkinson

Eleven of Hawkesbury’s (LCDR Paul Mandziy) finest lined up to take on the Norfolk Island Eleven as part of the Bounty Day celebrations annual cricket match.

Norfolk Island won the toss and batted first in a match of 20 overs per side.

The opening bowling partnership proved a little rusty with the first ball thunderbolt of LEUT Taylor unfairly snicked over the gully to the boundary for four. Ships medic LS Winter held up his end by containing the rampaging Norfolk Island opening partnership for several critical overs.

Unfortunately, the XO, LCDR Griffiths. didn’t help matters after being dispatched for three sixes in his two overs when bought into the attack. LS Robbie “O” Oakley snagged two quick wickets when bought on with his tight medium pace combining well with LCDR Mandziy who as keeper surprised a few with his dexterity.

Fielding let the side down with dropped catches costing the side runs as did CPO Pemberton (previous U16 Beechworth representative) with his 15 ball over. 110 runs and 20 overs later, the side trouped off with a slim chance of victory.

A spirited opening batting perfomance by ABCD Mitchell scoring 18 runs in four overs had the visiting side off to a great start, however the side fell well short as wickets tumbled.

The XO somewhat redeemed himself in a spirited last-ditch stand with willow flying as he ran like the wind taking impossible singles.

Entertaining throughout, it appeared that all Hawkesbury could manage to catch that day was the flu, however it must be noted that Hawkesbury was well supported from the hill (bay 13) by her vocal ships company.

The Norfolk Is team played well and a good day was had by all. Unfortunately the trophy remained on the island, with the visitors missing the opportunity to be the first RAN ship to win.

.