1st XI Interschool match summary

By Kent Twaites | Posted: Tuesday February 13, 2024

In a 50 over match, Timaru Boys' High School won the toss and elected to bat.

Opening the bowling, Hassaan Farooqi and Harry Bezett bowled challenging lines and lengths, claiming three early wickets. Just as Timaru were looking to rebuild, Jack Ussher claimed the 4th, followed soon after by two to Ashton Hansen and one to Alfie Omelvena-Flame to leave Timaru teetering at 72 for 7 after 24 overs. A fighting 8th wicket partnership saw Timaru though to 104 off 32 overs before captain Luke Marsh made the breakthrough.

While it looked like an early lunch was beckoning, Timaru proceeded to fight their way through to a competitive total, thanks in large part to an excellent innings from Flynn Brookland, who was finally bowled by Harry Bezett for 86. Hassaan Farooqi took the last wicket to end the innings at 191. Harry Bezett was the leading wicket taker, finishing with 3 for 28 off 9 overs.

In reply, Otago Boys' got off to a strong start. Ashton Hansen was the first to fall for a hard hit 27. Opener Matt Parker and captain Luke Marsh then compiled an excellent 2nd wicket partnership, with the score at 91/1 at drinks (17 overs). Unfortunately, both fell soon after (Matt Parker for 32 and Luke Marsh for 31) and a collapse ensued, leaving the team precariously positioned at 126/6. Alfie Omelvena-Flame (41) and Max Boylen then combined in an excellent 7th wicket partnership, easing the nerves of the team and spectators, before both felt within sight of victory. 

Otago Boys' held on to win a hard fought encounter by two wickets.