MPCA: Carrum Downs crack Saints, take top spot in District

Carrum Downs sent a statement to its rivals with a stunning bowling and fielding display to dismantle Balnarring’s in-form batting line-up in MPCA District.

Carrum Downs wicketkeeper Brad Lockhart (left) and bowler Jordy Watters appeal unsuccessfully for a wicket on Saturday. (Photo by Josh Chadwick)

Carrum Downs knew it needed a spark as it took the field on Saturday.

Defending 153, the Cougars made a pact to be energised, loud and lively against Balnarring.

It worked.

Ryan Lynch struck in the second over and soon Balnarring was reeling at 4-34, with skipper Luke Hewitt back in the sheds after being bowled for 10 by Josh Dinger.

Carrum Downs bowled with discipline, fielded sharply and celebrated every wicket with unbridled joy.

Rob Johnston celebrates after bowling Patrick Nickeas of Balnarring. (Photo by Josh Chadwick)

Balnarring’s chase expired in the 62nd over, all out for 119.

“We didn’t have many on the board so we made a point of being switched on and it worked well,’’ Carrum Downs assistant coach Michael O’Driscoll said.

“All the boys bowled really tight, one side of the wicket.’’

After Lynch (2-27) and Dinger (1-32) did the early damage, Shane Smith (2-29 off 21 overs) and spinner Rob Johnston (3-18) completed the job as a united Cougars celebrated their third win on the bounce — climbing to top spot in the process.

Carrum Downs celebrate its third win on the bounce. (Photo by Josh Chadwick)

Carrum Downs is chasing an elusive flag this season and O’Driscoll believes it has the talent and motivation to succeed.

“Our good is really good and our average is…we’ve got to close the gap a little bit but that’s alright it’s only early in the season,’’ O’Driscoll said.

Balnarring had won two in a row before Saturday’s loss and the Saints are expected to be a flag contender this season.

Jake Hewitt showed tremendous application to make 49 not out off 144 balls (7 fours) as wickets fell around him.

Jake Hewitt of Balnarring bats. (Photo by Josh Chadwick)

In other games, Baxter youngsters Cody Irving (50) and Jye Dignan (64) shared an 88-run third wicket partnership as their side made 194 in reply to Flinders’ thumping 9-391. Flinders teenagers Samuel Field (3-47 off 15 overs) and Charlie Beggs (3-20 off 12.4 overs) did the damage.

Boneo’s Dilasri Lokubandara blitzed 100 off 64 balls (11 fours, 4 sixes) in the Pandas’ big win over Main Ridge. Sadin Abeygunawardana made 51 not out.

Liam Hulett snared 4-48 as Carrum dismissed Crib Point for 216, in reply to 243. Jack Knight (60), Luke Herrington (43) and Spencer Wilton (41) batted well for Cribby.

Ladder: Carrum Downs, Carrum, Flinders, Boneo, Balnarring, Crib Point, Baxter, Main Ridge.