By Tara Murray
Central Highlands had a mixed week at the Youth Premier League under-18 cricket championships last week.
Facing the other regions from across the state, the Highlanders finished the week with four wins to finish fourth in their pool.
The Highlanders started the week well with two wins on the opening day.
First up they defeated the Waves. The Highlanders batted first, making 3-121 from their 20 overs. Emerson White, a former Rupertswood player, top-scored with 33. The Highlanders restricted the Waves to 8-102, with Matt Harris taking four wickets.
The Highlanders made it two from two when they defeated the Northern Falcons. The Highlanders made 7-124 before bowling the Falcons out for 96 in the final over.
On day two, the Highlanders lost to the North West Wizards and Barwon. They lost to the Western Spirit to start day three.
The Highlanders finished the competition on a high with two wins on the final day.
First they defeated Mallee, with Jack Riding the key with 48 not out.
Riding made 39 not out in the Highlanders win against the Rivers.
Riding was the Highlanders best batsman for the tournament, finishing with an average of 51.50. The Highlanders shared the wickets around, with Joel Garbutt, Matt Harris and Fraser Hay taking seven wickets each.
The Pioneers defeated the Rivers in the final at the Junction Oval.
Tara Murray
