September 4th 2005

Junior Cricket Skills and Single Wicket Finals Day

Scorching hot weather once again greeted the young Oaks cricketers in pursuit of single wicket glory. A total of XX young cricketers turned out to contest the five age-group finals. Amongst them were four of last year's winners Joel Gallagher, Scott Hartley, Nick Crook and Jack Davison.

The morning's events were once again a six-discipline skills competition designed to whittle the numbers down to two in each age-group for the afternoon finals. The disciplines were Running, catching, batting, bowling, throwing and fielding. The Running was held in age-groups with other events in mixed groups although the scoring system was against only each cricketers peer group. The Running skill comprised a 100 yard sprint and a 66-yard 'three-run' simulation with bat in hand. As usual the crowd were unstinting in their derision of any one considered not trying and this year was no exception. The five-discipline rotation followed for the remainder of the morning. The results emerged as below:

With the absence on holiday of Jack Ellis the 2005 Garry Kirby Cup was to be contested by brothers Joel Gallagher (defending Champion) and Connor Gallagher.

Under 17s Final

The Under-17s Final was a real smash and grab affair from younger brother Connor. Joel batting first was somewhat subdued as he made 25 runs, only 12 from the bat as Connor contributed two wides and a no ball which was hit for 4. Connor started cautiously as Joel's spin had the usual effect but he later threw caution to the wind and picked up boundaries and was grateful to a dropped catch also. He made a stunning 30 runs, 22 from the bat to claim the Trophy from his Auntie Janet to the delight of all but poor Joel.