Cricket Shepparton’s fortunes are on the up as Northern Rivers Junior Country Week sails towards its conclusion.
The under-16 boys had a memorable triumph at Vibert Reserve on Thursday, wrapping up the group with a thumping win over Murray Valley Cricket Association.
After a stinging defeat to Bendigo in Tuesday’s opening encounter, wild storms forced the cancellation of all Country Week cricket Wednesday before the Walter Jackson-led side finally broke through.
Jackson sent the MVCA in to bat first and Northerners youngster Sean Miles went on a tear with a four-wicket haul that left the visitors reeling and eventually dismissed for 87.
Waaia’s Kaleb Gilmour continued on winning ways after a successful showing at the Cricket Victoria Country Cup, top-scoring on the day with 43 (four fours, two sixes) in a comfortable six-wicket success.
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Set to strike: MVCA's Jeremy Packer. Photo by Rechelle ZammitImage 2 of 10
Bowled, mate: Cricket Shepparton's Aden Schreck. Photo by Rechelle ZammitImage 3 of 10
Offloading: Cricket Shepparton's Zavier Davidson. Photo by Rechelle ZammitImage 4 of 10
In his stride: Cricket Shepparton's Walter Jackson. Photo by Rechelle ZammitImage 5 of 10
Down the pitch: MVCA's Jeremy Packer. Photo by Rechelle ZammitImage 6 of 10
Talking tactics: MVCA's Harry Ryan and Hamish Baker. Photo by Rechelle ZammitImage 7 of 10
Nicked it off: MVCA's Jaxon Webb. Photo by Rechelle ZammitImage 8 of 10
Defensive stance: MVCA's Hamish Baker. Photo by Rechelle ZammitImage 9 of 10
Reading the full ball: MVCA's Harry Ryan. Photo by Rechelle ZammitImage 10 of 10
Unleashing: Cricket Shepparton's Sean Miles. Photo by Rechelle ZammitAdditionally, the under-15 boys pulled off a heist to wrap up a pair of unbeaten group games, thanks to a brilliant bowling display seeing off Sunraysia at Kialla Park Reserve.
Not looking the favourites after batting first and posting 114 all out, the bowlers would put in a remarkable shift to break up partnerships as needed and give the side a shout.
In the end, Cricket Shepparton had more than enough breathing room as the under-15 contingent mirrored its elder counterparts by removing its foes for 87 to secure victory.
Rechelle Zammit was on hand at both venues throughout the day to capture the action.