SCHOOL SPORT VICTORIA - SANDHURST DIVISION

Junior Girls Cricket

On Tuesday 6 October, the Junior Girls Cricket team faced off against Bendigo South East Secondary (BSE) and Marist College Bendigo in a fast-paced, 12-over format, with each innings squeezed into a 40-minute window. The day began pleasantly with a gentle breeze but soon transformed into a classic ‘four seasons in one day’ scenario, challenging both players and spectators.

In the opening match against BSE, fortune favoured CMCB as the team won the toss and elected to bat first. Stella Rooke and Eden Rooke set the tone with a confident start, with Stella striking a boundary off the very first ball. Both openers retired unbeaten, with Stella amassing 16 runs and Eden contributing 11. Layla Hand and Lucy Pollock followed, each adding 4 runs, while Elsie Gretgrix batted assertively to add 7 more. Supported by a handful of extras, our team posted a competitive total of 55 runs.

During our bowling innings, Layla Hand, Chelsea Wilson and Stella Rooke spearheaded the attack. Layla and Stella proved formidable, dismissing three BSE batters between them, while Chelsea delivered a tight, economical spell. Greta Pollock claimed a wicket, with Emerson Arundell taking a superb catch. Despite conceding some extras, the girls restricted BSE to 43 runs, securing their first victory.

Game 2 against Marist unfolded under increasingly ominous skies, with wind and rain threatening to disrupt play. Undeterred, the girls took to the field, and Eden Rooke launched the bowling attack, capturing three wickets in just two overs. Lucy and Greta Pollock also struck, and Marist was bowled out for just 18 runs after only eight overs. The batters chased down the target within three overs, allowing teammates an opportunity to bat before the worsening weather forced an early end to the match.

Overall, it was a spirited and enjoyable day for the team, which now advances to the next stage, the Loddon Mallee Regional Competition on Monday 12 October.

A special thank you to Year 9 helpers, Max Adams and Sam Boylson, for their invaluable support with scoring and umpiring throughout the day.

Mrs Rachel Winfield (Coach)

TEAM: Lucy Pollock, Chelsea Wilson, Greta Pollock, Remmi Comer, Mrs Rachel Winfield (Coach), Layla Hand, Stella Rooke, Eden Rooke, Elsie Gretgrix, Emerson Arundell, Florence Lapthorne