Classy batting from Co-Captain Harriett Cuttance leads the Columba First XI Cricket Team into the final round of the Bates Cup knock-out tournament held across Otago.

After an impressive 2019 performance finishing in second place, Columba Cricket were propelled straight into the Semi Finals for the 2020 event. They faced rivals Otago Girls High School in what was set to be a showdown of two top quality local sides. Played in the far north of Dunedin at Chingford Park it was a bright, sunny and tropical 25 degree day with minimal wind and a great surface - perfect for cricket.

After winning the toss, Otago Girls Opted to bowl first leaving Columba to kick start the batting, hopeful of setting a big run score for their opposition to try chase down. They did exactly that, making 162 for 5 from their 20 overs at the crease. The innings was build around a majestic unbeaten century by Harriett Cuttance (102 not out from facing just 70 balls). She was supported by superstar wicket keeper, Emily Brosnahan who hit 20 runs from 10 balls to lift the run rate at a key time.

Otago girls battled tough, doing their best to pull back the total. Although this proved difficult on the back of excellent bowling by Angelique Peyroux who conceded only 15 runs from her 4 overs and took a wicket. Player of the Match - Harriett Cuttance was also magic with the ball claiming 3 wickets in her first over and being hit for just 16 runs throughout her bowling stint.

Overall a team approach in the field with all players working hard and following the phenomenal captaincy of Grace Walding this group of stars had all the key factors that sealed the victory.

For the second year in a row the team has qualified for the Suzie Bates Cup Final and the team will face an as yet unknown opponent in a T20 match over the next fortnight. Aiming of qualifying for the National tournament held later in the year, Columba College wishes you all the best of luck, we back you 100%!! 

Biggest thank you to Coach Mike Brosnahan and TIC Mr Everett for all their support and advice, the team is lucky to have you both involved. The passion you have for the game is immense and the knowledge you pass onto our students is evident in the way they are performing.