Teenagers driving Gold Coast Dolphins women toward Katherine Raymont Shield finals finish

THE Gold Coast Dolphins’ youth brigade continue to drive their Katherine Raymont Shield charge after helping solidify their top-four spot against Ipswich-Logan on Sunday.

THE Gold Coast Dolphins’ youth brigade continue to drive their Katherine Raymont Shield charge after helping solidify their top-four spot against Ipswich-Logan on Sunday.

With fellow teenagers Grace Parsons, Caitlin Woods and Hiruni Don already showing their potential in the early rounds of the season, it was again Chelsea Gan’s turn to produce the goods in the four-wicket triumph over the Hornets at Amberley.

BRYANT STARS AS DOLPHINS FALL

Chasing 193 for victory, 16-year-old Gan was handed opening duties and responded with a crucial and patient knock of 36 from 99 balls.

Gold Coast Dolphins teen Chelsea Gan. Picture: Richard Gosling

Her knock, which was complemented by opening partner Amy Riddell (29) and Sammy-Jo Johnson (47), helped steer the visitors home with more than five overs to spare.

After crafting a composed 80 in Round 1, Gan now has 143 runs at an average of more than 35 to put the Dolphins in contention for a top-two finish.

HUNGRY CROCS CONTINUE CHARGE

“(Sunday was a) great result under some trying conditions. It was hot and the girls were exceptional in what they achieved in probably one of the hottest days the girls have had to play in,” coach Garry Lovett said.

Gold Coast Dolphins’ Amy Riddell. Picture: Jerad Williams

“Young Chelsea Gan opened and played a role of keeping up one end and she did not disappoint. And everyone else that batted played a crucial role in getting a win.”

HELENSVALE DRAWING INSPIRATION FROM 2017-18 HEROICS

Fresh off Queensland Country selection, fast bowler Woods, 17, made her return from a back injury in the Dolphins’ second grade loss to Sunshine Coast on Sunday.

The first grade side plays one more one-day fixture, away to Valleys on Sunday, before the T20 competition starts the following weekend.