Kilcunda Bass edge out MDU in tight finish

A Grade, Division 2

Meeniyan Dumbalk United (MDU) fell just short in their A Grade clash on Saturday, going down to Kilcunda Bass in the final over despite strong individual performances.

MDU captain Mitch praised the efforts of his side’s new and emerging players, noting the positives to take from the opening round.

“Tharindu Nuwan made a really well-batted 54 off 48 balls and also picked up two wickets,” he said.

“Archie Casey, in his first game for us, bowled really well opening the bowling and grabbed himself two wickets, while Max Murray also picked up a wicket in his first outing for the club. Unfortunately, we couldn’t quite get over the line, but we’re looking forward to a great season ahead with some fresh faces.”

Kilcunda Bass president Ash Larcombe said his team was pleased with the way they responded under pressure.

“The overall game was a highlight. MDU did well to make 190. We bowled well, but they had a few good partnerships,” he said.

“Brad Wright took the first couple of wickets and slowed them down. Cameron Davidson bowled well to start; he was tight but without success. He came back on later and took a few wickets (to finish the innings).”

Chasing the total, Kilcunda Bass lost early wickets but steadied through a composed captain’s knock.

“Our captain, Matt Grayson, really stood up and got us through. He had great partnerships with Todd Smith and then Aaron Conron, which got us over the line. He was always in control,” Larcombe said.

“The turning point was the partnership between Matt and Todd – it lifted our run rate. Todd was bowled in the 19th over before drinks, and after the break, it still could’ve gone either way, but Grayson and Conron got us the win.”

Kilcunda Bass secured the win late, but both clubs will take confidence from the contest heading into round two.

Korumburra eyes first hit-out in round two

Korumburra will finally take to the field this weekend in round two of the LDCA season, with the club’s A2 side set to face Meeniyan Dumbalk United at Meeniyan.

After sitting out the opening round, the side is eager to get underway, though the weather forecast could still play a role.

“We’ll be lucky to get one in by the looks of the weather forecast,” club president Glen Barrett said.

Despite the uncertainty, Barrett said the team was focused on both performance and player development.

“We are looking forward to taking the field and implementing our strategy to develop our young talent and support them through Senior cricket,” he said.

“We’ll be concentrating on what we’re doing out there, with our great mix of senior experience and young enthusiasm. Our priority this season is as much about getting our young players out there as it is about the wins and losses.”

Foster forfeited their match against Nyora on Saturday.