by St Paul's Collegiate School

Cricketers begin the season in fine form

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The 1st X1 cricket team have begun their season with two games against Hinuera and Morrinsville. Read the full reports here:

Two-Day Game vs Hinuera

On both Saturday, 11 and Sunday, 12 January, St Paul’s had a tough first game in the two-day competition against Hinuera. St Paul’s had several young players in the team gaining experience in this holiday fixture including; Michael Robinson, Dylan Fletcher, Cameron Bird, and Ben Urlich. St Paul’s won the toss and batted first, reaching a total of 160 before being bowled out. Best batting contributions came from Declan O’Sullivan 60 not out, Curtly Harper 39, and Jack Sturm 20. In response, Hinuera batted very well and made a formidable 359/3 with Declan, Dylan and Curtly taking a wicket each as St Paul’s struggled in the very hot conditions. Former St Paul’s captain, Eddie Sclater scored an excellent 101 not out for Hinuera. Needing to bat 80 overs to avoid outright defeat, St Paul’s put in a much more dedicated batting effort. Half-centuries were scored by Jack Sturm 69, Curtly Harper 55, and Kuwyn Price 51. St Paul’s finished on 269/6 displaying great skill and discipline to secure a draw.

Two-Day Game vs Morrinsville

On Day One, St Paul’s batted first and Morrinsville started off well, knocking over both openers. However, the innings was resurrected by Ollie O’Meeghan (67) and Jack Strum (34). Sam Lints also contributed, scoring 64. The tail also played their part with Shivam Achary (25). St Paul's finished the day on 233/10 from 67.2 overs. In reply, Morrinsville started well, but St Paul's was able to keep things at bay with Shivam Achary picking up three wickets for 38 runs. At the end of Day One, Morrinsville were 144/3.

Day Two saw Morrinsville in a strong position to take the first innings. However, St Paul's was able to fight back into the game with Ollie O’Meeghan the main destroyer, picking up three wickets for only 14 runs. However, Morrinsville was able to tie our score of 233/9, but they weren’t able to post a lead, thus sharing the points. With time running out, St Paul's was able to bat out the match with Cooper Robinson scoring 54 not out, and Curtly Harper 37 not out with the loss of no wickets.