Looking More A Predator Than A Pest
The Yarrabilba Cane Toads have fallen short in their bid for Winter Cricket glory, beaten in the 2021 RJR Sports Winter Cup cricket final by six-wicket to champions Southern Rangers at the end of August.
After losing the coin toss the Cane Toads were asked to bat first, opening batter Carl Purvis was out for eight from 16-deliveries. Despite the early set back Justin Noonan (76 from 81) and Patrick Hansen (57 from 63) did their best to rebuild combining for a partnership of 121 runs before Hansen departed caught.
The match remained in the balance as momentum swung between both sides, Matt Bailey with a run-a-ball 16, before a mini batting collapse saw the chances for the Cane Toads hop away – Wayne Woods (four from three), Shaun Love (two from three) and Hayden McAvoy (one from two) all departing to reduce the batting side to 6 for 185.
Step up, Brisbane Premier League (BPL) Moreton Bay Magic U19s player, Mitchell Le Prou who plundered the Southern Rangers bowling attack with a quickfire 44 from just 20-balls before departing – Skipper Nick Feros finishing unbeaten on 30 from 20 deliveries as the Yarrabilba Cane Toads posted a competitive 8 for 270 from their 40 overs.
The Absolute Physio & Rehab Yarrabilba Cane Toads then took control in the field, looking more a predator than a pest, swooping on everything like seagulls on a chip as momentum swung their way early.
An absolute blinder of an opening spell by young up and coming star Shaun ‘Pup’ Love caused all sorts of trouble for the Rangers top order, combining with Wayne Woods for a total of five early wickets as the Southern Rangers were reduced to 5 for 84 in their run chase.
It was after the drinks break that the Southern Rangers hit into gear, Twin Tiro combined with Tongata Tengere to not only wrestle momentum back into their favor but through their 158-run stand knocking the Cane Toads out quicker that Evander Holyfields latest return to the boxing-ring.
Tiro was eventually dismissed for 90 from 64 deliveries, an innings that included nine-fours and five sixes. The hero of the Grand Final however being Tengere who remained not out on 104 from 71 as he guided his side home to claim the title.
It’s Not Too Late
It is not too late to get involved with cricket this season through the Yarrabilba Cane Toads. The club remain looking for Junior and Senior players of all ages, skill sets and abilities.
Whether you are a seasoned professional dusting off the old kit bag or picking up the bat for the first time you are always welcome to come down and have a hit with the Cane Toads.
By Brendon Meynell – President Yarrabilba Cricket Association
president@yarrabilbacricket.com