Runs galore for key batters

Diggers Rest's Rasika Batepola. Picture Shawn Smits.

By Tara Murray

Adam Dudderidge and Rasika Batepola went big with the bat for their teams, while Gisborne remains undefeated after the weekend’s round of Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup.

Dudderidge was the star of the show on day two of the round eight matches, as he guided Sunbury United to a massive win against St Anthony’s.

Needing 263 for victory, United didn’t start well and were in trouble at 4-64. A 241-run partnership between Dudderidge and Dinuska Malan turned the game in United’s favour.

The two hit the winning runs and then kept on going, as United made a massive 7-454.

Dudderidge went really big, making 221 off 166 balls faced, which included 32 fours and seven sixes.

Malan provided plenty of support, making 85.

The win moves United into the top four.

Gisborne remains undefeated after beating Bacchus Marsh in the grand final rematch.

The Dragons had the runs on the board, having made 7-284 on day one.

The Bulls never got close, bowled out for 189. Skipper James Lidgett top scored with 58.

Luke Macumber took 4-20 for the Dragons.

Diggers Rest Bulla were again in form with the bat, this time against Romsey.

Having piled on the runs this season, they made a massive 5-435 in reply to Romsey’s 284.

Rasika Batepola, who made a century for the second XI in his last match, scored 159 at the top of the order. 

Every batsman got a start for the Burras, with 19 not out the lowest total.

The Burras sit second on the ladder, three points behind Gisborne. The top two teams have a big break on the other teams.

In the other match, Woodend had a big win against Riddell.

Needing 297 for victory, the Bombers were bowled out for 115.

Matt Darby top scored with 28, while Warren Else took 3-30 for Woodend.

Wooded finished 6-87 in their second innings.

Woodend now sits third on the ladder.