Country week: Geraldton’s B-section pick up win in last game of ‘Mr Country Week’ Clint Yeates’ final tour

Geraldton’s number two side at country week cricket bucked the odds to retain a berth in B-section for 2025.

B-section is almost as demanding as A-section, as changing playing rosters means there are B-teams stronger than some weakened A-sides.

The Geraldton twos won only one game, but it was the relegation final on Friday against Warren-Blackwood at Gwynne Park.

Warren-Blackwood batted first and made 135, with Clint Yeates (6-18) ending his 114th and apparently last country week game with his best-ever figures. Seth Farmer (3-31) also bowled superbly.

Geraldton lost four wickets in the chase, with captain Aaron McAuliffe (39 not out) and Simon Evans (48) shining.

B-section captain McAuliffe said it had been a hard but rewarding tour.

“We faced strong number one teams from their respective associations but I thought we had much to offer with a mix of experience and youth,” he said.

“We had no luck with bat or ball, which you need during the week, but it was great to play well in the relegation game and hold the team in B-section.

“We had a lot of sore men but they pushed through to get the win.

“I hope more people are available for selection next year as it’s likely a couple will drop out of the first team and the best from B-section have to go up.”

The star for the seconds was Yeates, who made the only 50 and took five wickets twice.

“Mr Country Week was fantastic, winding back the clock with bat and ball most games and his guidance helped me make some tough decisions,” McAuliffe said.

“I’m pretty sure it’s his last series and it was fitting he ended with six wickets and hit the winning runs.”

The leading wicket-taker was Gus Heberle (13 at 18.07) and McAuliffe was also impressed by Farmer and ‘keeper Darcy Giltrow.

“Heberle was good and bowled a lot of overs but Farmer deserved more wickets — he bowled quick and controlled and gave us good pace at the top,” he said.

“Giltrow took the gloves, which made our job easier as we had no designated keeper until he put his hand up. He’s 15 and did a terrific job — great effort.”