UPDATE: The Western NSW Junior Carnival has officially commenced, showcasing thrilling performances on the opening day, January 5. Despite looming rain, the under-15s boys and girls matches unfolded in Orange and Molong, captivating audiences with remarkable displays of cricket talent.
In a highlight moment for the home team, Orange’s boys delivered a stunning performance at Anzac Park, claiming a decisive victory over Nepean by 47 runs. Orange set a formidable target of 136, with standout player Isaac Churchland scoring 43 runs off 37 balls. Nepean faltered in the chase, collapsing for just 89 runs, thanks to an impressive bowling effort from Thomas Wythes, who took 3 wickets for 25 runs.
Meanwhile, in Molong, ACT Gold dominated Dubbo, racking up a massive total of 215 runs in their innings. Lucas Lapthorne was instrumental, scoring 59 runs off 47 balls and contributing with the ball, achieving figures of 2/7 in four overs. ACT Gold secured a resounding victory by 140 runs, leaving Dubbo struggling throughout the match.
Over at Kinross Wolaroi School, the Western girls made a powerful statement in their first match, knocking South Juniors Cricket Club for a staggering 193 runs and winning by 107 runs. Charlotte Shoemark shone brightly, scoring 63 runs off 66 balls, including seven boundaries, solidifying her team’s success.
In an exciting encounter between Canberra and Newcastle, Newcastle captain Jane Cruckshank led her team with a stellar 101 runs off 123 balls, helping them post a total of 5/180. However, it was Frances Chevalier who stole the show, scoring an impressive 95 not out off just 76 balls to guide ACT to a thrilling five-wicket victory.
In the boys’ matches, Jaskaran Bhatia of Blacktown Gold delivered a phenomenal performance, taking 6 wickets for just 11 runs in a commanding nine-wicket win over Blue Thunder. Additionally, Virat Janyavula from the Canberra Rhinos had a notable outing, achieving figures of 5/15, though his efforts fell short in a 53-run loss against Blacktown Black.
As the excitement continues, a photographer has captured all the action from Day One, with more updates and images to follow throughout the week. Don’t miss the highly anticipated City vs. Country Twenty20 match, set to take place under lights at Wade Park this evening. Players will be nominated from the competing teams, promising an electrifying showdown.
Stay tuned for more live updates as the Western NSW Junior Carnival unfolds!
