End of the road

Having endured a tough tournament, Victoria finished with a 1-4 ledger as EAP shone in the Twenty20 fixture to overhaul their target with three balls to spare.

On a brighter note, Albury Wodonga’s James McNeil, who finished the carnival with 207 runs at 51.80 including an unbeaten 127 against Queensland, was named in the Australian Country XI.

“It’s pretty disappointing to come away with only one win,” McNeil told The Border Mail.

“But I’m glad I managed to contribute to some extent with the bat.

“It was a good chance to see what the other states have to offer with regards to coaching and player skill level as well.”

Having won the toss and elected to bat, Victoria posted 9-137 with Bendigo’s Cameron Taylor top-scoring with 41 from 37 balls including six boundaries.

Murray Valley’s Shaun Downie chimed in with 30 from 32, while Mornington’s Bob Wilson made 20 from 17 at the top of the order.

In reply, EAP made a flying start as their opening batsmen put on 64 for the first wicket before Taylor (1-30) made the initial breakthrough.

Shortly after, Murray Valley’s Luke Carter (1-32) ensured there were two fresh batsmen at the crease, but EAP would not be denied.

The combined outfit hunting down the total in the final over to leapfrog Victoria in the placings.

To see a full scorecard, click here.