Despite rain playing havoc with Bairnsdale Cricket Association (BCA) matches, almost a full day’s play was completed at the Orbost Recreation Reserve where Orbost and West Bairnsdale did battle in “A” grade.
West Bairnsdale finished the day in a strong position at 3/288 from 73 overs, with rain only preventing the bowling of seven overs.
In contrast matches at Lindenow South and Wy Yung had no play or virtually none, and will be played as one day fixtures this week.
West Bairnsdale skipper, Ryan Halford had no hesitation on electing to bat on another belting Orbost wicket, and although conditions got tough late in the day, West batted superbly, led by Sam Stewart who made a splendid 115 not out from 221 balls, his maiden BCA “A” grade century.
Stewart hit 10 boundaries and featured in another productive opening stand with Brodie Anderson (78 from 107), including 10 boundaries and a maximum.
The pair added 122, before Brodie Anderson was bowled by Nicholas Hulme (2/41).
Halford came to the crease and was his in his usual aggressive frame of mind, making 53 from 55 balls, including five crisply struck boundaries and a maximum.
He added 83 for the second wicket with Stewart, who was showing no signs of tiring, despite his long stint at the crease.
Halford and Mitch Toms went in quick succession, and at 3/206, Orbost were a chance to work their way back into game, but Stewart soldiered on this time with the support of Jake Anderson (32 not out), as the pair added an unbeaten 82.
No doubt West Bairnsdale will be after quick runs on day two, before setting the attacking Blues a total, West Bairnsdale will be keen to bank the six points on offer for a win.
Orbost will need another huge innings from Jayden Price and plenty of support from the likes of Luke Endley, Tim Osborn, skipper Curtley Farley and the Hulme brothers if they are to be a realistic chance of pulling off victory.
In “B” grade, Orbost finished on 7/70 after their 40 over allocation against Lindenow South Glenaladale at the Glenaladale Recreation Reserve.
The innings highlight was 36 from Campbell Macalister, who was the clear pick of the batsmen.
In reply the Bulls knocked up the runs in 12 overs, for the loss of two wickets, which were both picked up by Lucas Shanahan (2/25).
This week “B’ grade will play St Mary’s Nagle at Nagle College.
The under 13 side will return to action this week after a bye, they will host Metung Swan Reach on Friday night at the Orbost Recreation Reserve.
The Orbost/Bruthen under 16s who are currently fifth on the ladder, will play Paynesville in one day match at the Orbost Recreation Reserve on Saturday morning, keen to bank some more points to remain in the finals race.
