MDU edge out Inverloch in thrilling chase

INVERLOCH’S batting collapse saw them post a modest 132 in 39.3 overs, with their innings crumbling despite early contributions from Jacob Strickland (19) and Jack Butcher (24). A solid bowling performance from MDU, spearheaded by Mark Cantwell (4/17) and Sembakuttige Chathura Lakshan (3/15), dismantled Inverloch’s middle order, leaving them with little to fight back.

In reply, MDU’s chase started with a bang as Sembakuttige Chathura Lakshan unleashed a commanding 69 off 84 balls. However, they faltered with wickets falling at regular intervals, and a couple of tense moments raised the stakes. 

Vice-Captain Mitch McGrath (17) and Captain Joel Sinclair (10) tried to stabilise the chase, but crucial run-outs and timely wickets, including from Jacob Strickland (3/21), kept Inverloch in the hunt.

It came down to the final moments, with Zak Bright (3 not out) and Mark Cantwell (7 not out) hanging on to guide their team home, securing a nail-biting 8/136 in 34.4 overs and clinching victory by just four runs. 

Donohue's standout 95

IN A commanding display of batting, Matthew Donohue's unbeaten 95* steered Glen Alvie to a competitive 6/135 in 40 overs, after Nyora won the toss and opted to bowl first. 

Donohue was the backbone of the innings, accumulating runs consistently with 11 boundaries, while his partners struggled to build significant partnerships. 

Notable contributions came from Matthew Dakin (11) and Wayne Luke (10 not out), but they couldn’t sustain long stays at the crease. Nyora's bowlers kept things tight, with Aaron Thompson (3/29) and Aidan Simmons (1/13) being the standout performers.

In response, Nyora’s chase got off to a rocky start, with wickets tumbling regularly. Henry Dolphin (3), Jy Hull (6), and Aaron Thompson (11) all fell cheaply, leaving Nyora at 3/31. 

A solid 35 from Aaron Kaddatz and a vital 33 not out from Benn Hayes and Aidan Simmons 2 not out, pushed Nyora over the line. 

Glen Alvie’s bowlers, particularly Matthew Dakin (2/23) and Ben McRae (2/16), kept their opponents under pressure, despite Nyora claiming a narrow victory by two runs. 

Foster v Kilcunda-Bass no match details at time of print.