2008/09 Hardball Champions

Gordon was sent into field after the toss and in truth did not bowl well today. Nervous limbs pitched too many bowls wide of the wicket. Rachel did an admirable job behind the stumps, throwing herself at numerous leg side deliveries as we handed a disappointing 45 sundries to the opposition. There were exceptions however: Jessie (2/11) took some crucial wickets in the middle phase; held a fine catch and executed a direct hit run out. Ariella (1 for 8); Nicola (1/7) and Ellen (1/12) also bowled tightly. 

Fortunately, our fielding was very good under the pressure. Thea (1/15) was a little wayward when bowling, but held two sharp catches, secured a run out and stopped everything that bounced her way. Lauren and Ariella were also very impressive. The fielding intensity kept Hornsby from reaching the century - and we secured their last wicket in the 20th over with the total 97.

Although we'd scored 90+ runs a few times during the season, we knew it would be a tough ask in a final and Hornsby must have felt reasonably confident and the half-way mark.

Jessie's opening batting was a little scratchy today (5 runs) and it was Ellen that dominated the first 8 overs, retiring not out on 23. Her running between wickets was outstanding. Thea also took a while to settle, but gradually started to strike the ball sweetly, being eventually run out on 14. We were falling behind the run rate, when Georgie got her eye in, striking 3 fours in her retired score of 20. The sight of her dancing all the way to the boundary in delight of her own performance gave everyone a lift.

With five overs and twenty-five runs to victory, I thought we might finally be in with a chance after struggling all day to keep in touch.

It all came down to the last over of the day with 6 runs required. However the tension became unbearable as we lost the wickets of Ariella (6) and Sarah (4) with the total on 95. Two runs off two balls was the equation, when the ever-reliable Ellen returned to the wicket. She struck the ball straight to a nearby fielder, but ran anyway. In a confusing finale, the fielder missed a close shot at the stumps and we took two over-throws.

Although in shock, it was clear we'd won the match and the title.

After plenty of screaming, dancing and hugging, Jessie received the shield from John Porter at the ensuing NSGCA presentation ceremony. Champagne was spilt and the parent paparazzi took plenty of celebratory photos.

Well done girls and thanks to Millie, Georgia and Nicola, whom didn't get to bat today, but contributed with the ball and with generous support from the boundary. Also thanks to Jess Henry and all the ladies from the Grade Club whom turned up in strong support for our team.