Wicket-fest at Merino

3 February 2010

Casterton News

IT was a day for the bowlers at the Merino Recreation Reserve as 25 wickets tumbled for just 169 runs on the second day of round 8 of Casterton cricket last Saturday.

The bowlers were the best performers in this game. Merino’s Andrew Russell starred with 6-37, Edenhope’s Theo Zaxos took 5-44 and Merino’s Darren Murrell 4-50.

The home team resumed at 1-40 and needed 148 more runs to pass the Edenhope first innings total.

Overnight batsman Josh Searle retired at 26, creating a big opportunity for the Edenhope bowlers. Wickets tumbled in quick succession as the Wombats slumped to 5-46.

Andrew Russell (15) and Darren Murrell (18) contributed well in the latter part of the Merino innings but the Wombats were dismissed for 82 in the 47th over. Theo Zaxos had a great day with the ball and grabbed 5-44, while Chris Carter chimed in with 2-5.

In Edenhope’s second innings Darren Murrell (4-50) and Andrew Russell (6-37) ran through the batting line-up of the ladder leader in just 28 overs and Edenhope was all out for 98.

Best with the bat for Edenhope were Theo Zaxos (19), Chris Carter (15 not out), Allan McIntyre (13) and Chris Oliver (12).

When time was called Merino’s second innings was in disarray at 6-29. Brenton Heron (10 no) was the only batsman to reach double figures while Edenhope’s Chris Oliver returned to the bowling crease with a promising 3-11. Edenhope won by 65 runs. Points: Edenhope 22, Merino 12.