Melton Centrals are looking to finish their Victorian Turf Cricket Association west A1 season on a winning note.
After a disappointing season to date which includes just one win, Centrals find themselves in the unusual position of not being in finals contention.
Centrals captain-coach Adam Hulett said it had been one of those seasons where nothing had gone their way.
“We’ve had injuries and unavailability and then we haven’t been playing our best cricket,” he said.
“It’s just one of those seasons which no one saw coming. All the close games we’re losing, in past years we have been able to get the wins.”
Hulett said with finals out of reach they would give a few other players opportunities in the top side.
“You’re obviously more happy when you’re winning, but it’s a chance to give a few guys a bit of a run.”
Connor Poulton has come in and taken over the wicketkeeping role, while James Whitfort, who is still playing junior cricket, was given his opportunity on the weekend after strong performances in the seconds.
Whitfort is 25 not out in the Centrals match against Gellibrand, which started on Saturday.
Hulett said it was good day of cricket against Gellibrand which is looking at a finals spot.
Gellibrand was bowled out for 194 after being sent in by Centrals. After getting an early wicket, Centrals managed to get constant wickets throughout the day to limit the score to under 200.
Centrals started well with the bat and will resume at 1-54.
“It’s a small quick ground and a couple of new guys were able to get the job done.”
Hulett is hoping a strong performance with the bat will get them a second win and give them momentum for the rest of the season.
“Hopefully we can win a few games at the back end of the season and end the season on a high.”
Centrals second side has already claimed first innings points against Gellibrand. Hulett said if they keep winning, finals were on the agenda.
Their women’s side, which had the weekend off, sit fourth heading into the one-dayers in the Cricket Victoria Women’s Community Cricket north-west competition.
In other west A1 matches, Melton South Royals made 166 against Williamstown Colts.
Graeme Bennett top scored for the Royals making 59. Colts were 1-27 at stumps, with Mitchell Woodyard with the wicket.
In north A1, Sydenham-Hillside’s form slump continues with the Storm 4-60 in reply to Moonee Valley’s 198.
