DVCA: Banyule upset Macleod led by Nick Murray’s brilliance

Banyule’s determination to turn to its homegrown talent is working wonders after it pulled off an upset win in the DVCA led by a return to form for captain Nick Murray.

Something special is brewing at Banyule.

The Bears ended a run of three straight losses on Saturday as they shocked Macleod — who had entered the weekend equal top of the ladder — by 63 runs in the Diamond Valley Cricket Association’s Barclay Shield.

First year captain Nick Murray led from the front after winning the toss going onto score an unbeaten 75 runs from 95 balls to guide his side to 6-170 from its 45 overs.

Banyule coach Darren Pybus described the win was another “step forward” for his young playing group.

“We’ve been on a journey this season where we’ve been focused on developing our own players,” he said.

“The club has a terrific talent pool of junior cricketers who we want to see progress into the senior grades as they continue their careers.

“Nick has taken on the responsibility as captain extremely well and is doing a fantastic job of leading our team forward.”

“He probably hasn’t done as well with the bat as he would have liked this season so it’s nice to see him make a good score.”

Jeff Wilson has won plenty of praise for the role he has played this season. Picture: Andy Brownbill

In response, Macleod were all out for 107 largely thanks to Jeremy Mahar’s 3-26 from nine overs.

Akashdeep Cheema played a critical support role as he finished with 2-15 from seven overs.

“Jeremy is another one of our young guys who has been given a bigger role this season,” Pybus said.

“We’ve given him an opportunity with the new ball and he has been improving with every game he has played in.

“He hits the deck hard and bowls a consistent line and length which is pleasing.”

Pybus handed a debut to Connor Lennox who became the 225th player to play in the club’s first XI.

He finished with figures of 1-33 from six overs.

In B Grade this season, Lennox has taken 12 wickets at an average of 12.75 with an economy rate of 2.59.

“It’s been another positive week for our club,” Pybus said.

“Our experienced guys in Jeff Wilson and Ryan Hartness have taken Connor and his teammates under their wing and really shown them the way forward.

“They’re an indispensable part of our side because they are critical in situations when the game might become a little tense.”

Banyule still sit two games outside the top four despite their win and will face Lower Eltham in their next game.

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