By Milla Webster
THE Seymour District Cricket Association saw another entertaining round played over the weekend, with Tallarook continuing its strong A grade form and several competitive contests across both grades.
In Seymour Club A grade, Tallarook produced a commanding performance to defeat Avenel by 58 runs. Batting first, Tallarook made an impressive 1/147 from its 20 overs, built on a dominant unbeaten partnership between Joshua Rudge and Lachlan Watts.
Tallarook got off to a rapid start, with Mitch Itter blasting 27 off just 16 balls to set the tone. From there, Rudge and Watts took control, combining for a 103-run stand. Rudge finished on 61 not out, striking eight fours and a six, while Watts remained unbeaten on 45, which included six boundaries, as Tallarook posted a challenging total.
Avenel made a promising start in reply, with Sam Marshall (29) and Travis Stefanos (21) providing early resistance. However, Tallarook’s bowlers soon asserted themselves. Matt Archibald delivered a decisive spell, taking 3/24, while Kalon Winnell bowled with great control to finish with 2/7 from his four overs. Avenel was ultimately restricted to 8/89.
At Puckapunyal, Pyalong held its nerve to record a narrow six-run victory. Batting first, Pyalong posted 5/103, led by opener Matthew Wilkins with 38, including four boundaries. Jamie Pryor added valuable late runs with a brisk 23 off 18 balls. Benjamin Kingston was the standout for Puckapunyal with the ball, finishing with 2/10.
In reply, Puckapunyal’s chase was anchored by Cody Deegan (26), with James Voogt (24) and Charles Davies (19) also contributing. Despite wickets in hand, the run rate proved too slow, and Puckapunyal finished on 4/97.
The A grade match between Seymour and Yea was postponed.
In Atmos Renewables B grade, Avenel edged out Tallarook in a closely fought contest. Tallarook made 6/93, with Brendan O’Donnell top-scoring with a well-made 53. Avenel’s bowlers were well served by Jared Smith (2/5) and Campbell Smith (2/21).
Avenel chased down the target to reach 5/96, with J Smith leading the way with 36, while Ben Trezise earlier took 2/22.
Puckapunyal’s B grade side enjoyed a convincing win over Pyalong. Puckapunyal posted 4/129, highlighted by a superb 70 from Jacob Nipperess and strong support from David Grundell (32). Pyalong was then restricted to 8/88, with Nipperess completing an excellent all-round display by taking 3/14.
