THE championship dreams of Tom Engelbrecht and Matthew Gilkes’ ACT/NSW Country side, at this year’s under 19 national championships in Tasmania, are over.
After an undefeated start of four wins and a draw to open the tournament, the two Ulladulla United juniors’ team lost by five wickets to Western Australia in Tuesday’s qualifying final at Lindisfarne Oval.
After winning the toss, ACT/NSW Country chose to bat first – with Gilkes opening the batting again, while Engelbrecht did not play in the match.
Gilkes couldn’t continue his strong form with the willow though, being dismissed for just nine from 39 deliveries.
The team would eventually post 8/208, thanks to a gritty 76 from Blake Nikitaras.
In reply, a hard-fought 75 from Western Australian opener Matthew Spoors guided the hosts past the total (5/210), with three balls to spare.
The team will now take on Queensland at Queensborough Oval on Wednesday, in a battle for the lower placings.
Semi-final fixtures - Wednesday, December 13
Cricket Australia XI vs South Australia at Kingston Twin Ovals
Western Australia vs NSW Metro at New Town Oval
Courtney Ward
Sports Journalist for South Coast Register and Milton-Ulladulla Times, who loves all things sport and travel. All views are my own.
Sports Journalist for South Coast Register and Milton-Ulladulla Times, who loves all things sport and travel. All views are my own.
