The Deniliquin Rhinos under-15s put up a valiant effort. Still, they could not chase down Katunga’s score in their two-day game, which was completed on Saturday.
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On the first day the previous week, Rhinos’ captain Charlie McCallum won the toss and elected to bowl first on a green and wet outfield.
McCallum and Fletcher Campion were consistent, bowling completely and straight.
At the same time, Red Ricon produced an excellent spell with figures of 1/14 after six overs.
Stuart Benger was persistent, claiming 1/7 from his five overs, including two maidens.
The young Rhinos controlled the game’s tempo and restricted Katunga to 1/45 after 20 overs.
However, some late-order hitting saw Katunga push their score to 6/146 at the end of the innings, with the score restricted by important field saves, dives and bowling from the Rhinos.
On Saturday, the Rhinos had their turn to bat against a strong Katunga side.
Ted Wren and Hamish Baker opened the batting, showcasing great defence and solid leaves against the Katunga opening bowlers.
However, Katunga’s Jules Cook struck early, capturing the big wickets of Hamish and Charlie McCallum.
At 2/5, the Rhinos were in early trouble.
Wren and Daniel Burn persisted with good shot selection and placement, including the first boundary from Burn with a booming pull shot.
At 3/48 after 20 overs, the Rhinos had stabilised the innings thanks to a calm.
They collected an approach from Wren and Fletcher Campion.
The young Rhinos tried to keep the scoreboard ticking with proactive and intelligent batting.
Campion showcased power and precision before being dismissed for 22, and their partnership pushed the Rhinos to 4/86.
Some tight and consistent bowling at the Rhinos lost some quick wickets.
Wren was finally dismissed after a crucial and match-defining knock of 38.
Jaxon Rothe, Red Ricon and Tom Marshall showcased meaningful partnerships to push the score past 100, with some cracking shots from Ricon and Marshall.
The Rhinos were eventually all out for 117, falling short of Katunga’s score.
It was another great game of hard-fought junior cricket.
The Wired Entertainment coach’s award recipient was Ted Wren for his outstanding batting performance, showing remarkable tenacity.
The under-15 Rhinos have a home game this week, playing Cobram at Memorial Park.
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