VicSpirit Pathway champions crowned
On a day of high temperature and high drama, two country regions emerged victorious following a grueling day of finals action, with Gippsland Pride prevailing in the under-16 tournament and North East Knights doing likewise in the under-14’s.
In the under-16’s, Gippsland were lucky to even qualify for the final, after a Kate Kyle half-century and hat-trick almost triggered a Central Highlands upset in the morning semi-final.
The three wicket win was enough, however, forcing a showdown with Mallee Murray Heat, who had earlier defeated Western Waves for a place in the championship decider.
Batting first, player-of-the-series, Sophie Molineux, once again demonstrated why many good pundits believe it’s a matter of when and not if she represents the Commonwealth Bank VicSpirit; retiring on 51 in the 17th over.
Some late hitting from Pride captain Nicole Halford saw her also reach a half-century, pushing Gippsland’s total to a competitive 4-129.
Tight bowling saw the run rate climb for the Heat and with the retirement of Victorian opening batter Makinley Blows on 52, the target soon became unassailable.
While Molineux was understandably proud of her player-of-the-series award, she was comparatively ecstatic with her side’s 25-run win.
“I just loved hanging out with the girls this week. We played really well as a team,” Molineux said.
“Winning this week has been great. I suppose I had a good week myself, but winning today is what it’s all about.”
In terms of her cricketing future, Molineux is already looking towards 2013-14 and a new set of challenges.
“I’m really looking forward to playing (the VicSpirit Championships) next season and having fun with a new group of girls,” Molineux said.
In the under-14’s, a thrilling chase by North East Knights secured what will be a memorable victory for the country region.
Batting first, South East Sharks blasted the Knights attack, with lusty hitting from player-of-the-final, Amy Yates (40 ret), pushing the total beyond 130.
In an even performance by the North East batters, the Knights maintained the six per over required throughout the opening 10 overs before hitting out late against a tiring attack.
Boundaries to Bianca Mulqueen (26) saw the Knights get over the line with an over to spare and ultimately be crowned this year’s champions.
In other grading matches, joint player-of-the-series, Madeline Wright, passed 200 runs for the week, while her fellow winner, Zoe Griffiths, notched up an unbeaten 41 in her side’s loss to the Central Highlands.
The Pathway program continues this Sunday, with the opening rounds of the Under-18 Victorian Bushrangers Pathway Championships.
To follow all the action, follow @CVPathway on Twitter and like the CV Pathway Facebook page.
To see full results from the VicSpirit Pathway Championships, click here.
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