Under-15s maintain winning streak

Skipper Annabel Martin starred for Victoria, blasting an unbeaten 41 (29) against Western Australia in a rain shortened match before hammering 86 not out from just 71 balls against Tasmania to lead from the front.

Victorian coach John Hayes could not be happier with his captain’s performance, praising Martin’s ability to juggle her responsibilities as an opening bat and leader.

“Her captaincy certainly over the last three games has been outstanding. She has done a great job,” Hayes said.

“She has thrived on it.”

Fresh off back-to-back wins in the one-day format, Martin and Claire Wilson (14 from eight balls) made the transition to the Twenty20 game look effortless as they raced to 0-15 against Western Australia before the latter was run out.

Amy Yates picked up where Wilson left off, crunching 37 from 29 balls including five boundaries which allowed Victoria to post 2-103 from its 11 overs.

In reply, Western Australia struggled to counter Victoria’s formidable attack.

Off-spinner Madeleine Wright’s (1-6) opened the bowling and provided the initial break through as she dismissed Caitlin Crocetta for two.

Holly Whitford (3-8) continued her impressive carnival as she ripped through the Western Australian middle order as her opponents limped to 6-37 from their allotted overs to provide Victoria with a 66-run victory.

A combination of talent, teamwork and support from spectators was acknowledged as they key to Victoria’s successful campaign thus far.

“Talent combined with working as a team and parents and spectators cheering the girls on is what it comes down to,” Hayes admitted.

With a break in conditions, Victoria had no hesitation in winning the toss and electing to bat against Tasmania as Martin and Wilson combined brilliantly to post a 157-run partnership.

While Martin was the aggressor, Wilson was the perfect foil as she stroked seven boundaries in her 54 from 50 balls before departing on the final ball of the innings.

The mammoth total always looked insurmountable for Tasmania and their hopes were soon dashed as the Tigers slumped to 6-18 as storm clouds rolled in.

Hayleigh Brennan (2-10), Wright (2-5) and Georgia Wareham (2-1) all claimed wickets before rain had the last say as Victoria prevailed by 70 runs under the Duckworth-Lewis method.

Hayes said he was looking forward to his squad enjoying a rest day today, with the girls given the opportunity to relax and prepare themselves for the remaining days of the Championships.

“After a total rest day today and a light training session before our afternoon match tomorrow, they should be refreshed and ready to go,” Hayes said.

Victoria will meet Queensland in another Twenty20 match tomorrow afternoon as their campaign for the Christina Matthews Shield continues.

To see full results from the Under-15 National Championships, click here.