September 5th, 2020 at the MCG
With the final playoff’s spots on the line, the Cougars had to show up big against the top of the table Albion CC.
The match started off in difficult circumstances, as the toss was once again lost on a very sunny and hot day.
The opposition eyed that allusive 400 + score on the always quick outfield. Fortunately for the Cougars though, the bowling unit was in fine form. Izak & Tim started things off and had the Albion openers in all sorts.
Izak then found the extra gear to show that the previous weekend was no fluke and had 4 quick wickets within 6 overs and a measly 25+ runs on the board.
The pivotal moment of the game came after the fourth wicket fell. Albion sent in the always formidable Nadim Mir, who immediately gloved the first delivery and had the umpire’s finger up. Five wickets down for the mighty Cougars! Or was it, some scenes of disbelief began as the umpired conferred with each other as the batsmen stood his ground, a look upstairs and the decision was reversed.
Some bewildered looks, and one or two choice words were shared, and the game resumed. The Cougars showed great discipline in handling the situation and tried to regain that momentum.
Unfortunately, it was not to be as the runs started to accumulate. More wickets were to come thanks in part to some sharp bowling and fielding by Himanshu, 2 wickets and 4 catches. Chris, Tanzil and Amit all finding a wicket or two as well. The final score 230 all out, higher than what it appeared to be heading for, but certainly below par on the fast outfield.
The batting was to follow similar games this season, as the wickets collapsed at a steady rate. The lower order showing some glimpses of fun, more than hope, but at 93 all out, the season ended in disappointing circumstances.
Scorecard can be found here.
Photos can be found here.
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