Grampians Cricket Association’s under-17 squad lost to Castlemaine in its first match of the Kirton Shield in Stawell.
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Grampians won the toss and sent Castlemaine in to bat.
Castlemaine’s openers Jack Ginnivan and Camblar Kays looked unstoppable early in the match as Grampians were able to put a stop to the 120-run partnership during the 33rd over.
Ginnivan finished just shy of a ton, on 96, and was able to find the boundary nine times after facing 142 in his spell.
Dillon Micallef bowled 3-27 for the Grampians from eight overs and Jaxon Edwards and Will Cooper claimed one wicket each.
James Phillips was handy in the field, catching three of the total wickets.
Castlemaine finished their innings 5-217 – a total to chase for the Grampians team in the afternoon.
Opening batsman Jaxon Edwards was an early out for the Grampians team at the start of their innings.
Aiden Graveson was caught out on 49 while trying to withstand the pressure mounting from Castlemaine but was unable to find a partner to build momentum.
Captain Aaron Byron was next best for Grampians – caught out for 26.
Castlemaine’s Rory Stephenson claimed three wickets in just over three overs.
Grampians innings finished in the 46th over, only managing to score 137 runs.
Coach Geoff Phillips said it was an enjoyable day and a “good, even day of cricket” in ideal conditions.
Phillips praised the Grampians team’s performance.
“We played well. Castlemaine applied themselves with their batting and their bowling – which made it difficult for scoring,” he said.
It was many firsts for the Grampians team with many of the players never playing together – always against.
“Because it’s early in the cricket season, it has made it difficult to get everyone together. Today was the first time we have all been together as a group,” he said.
With the next round of the Kirton Shield played in a Twenty20 style, Phillips is looking forward to what the team can produce after playing a match together and knowing strengths and weaknesses.
“I think all the players have enjoyed the day and now they have a taste of what is required to be competitive in our next match,” he said.
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