T20 flag win sparks celebrations for Wanderers in Geraldton women’s cricket

Wanderers won the Young Motors Women’s Cricket League flag on Sunday against a worthy but outgunned Sportsmans.

The result sparked a flurry of celebrations for a team that has gone from last to first in the three years the women’s competition has been running.

“Nine of our team played in our first season when we didn’t win a game, but we’ve put that right, and with our supporters and helpers here to watch,” Wanderers captain Linda Rose said.

“I especially thank (coach) Bruce Gillingham.

“He’s improved us individually and as a team.

“I’m so proud of how far we’ve come.”

Wanderers were hot favourites, but took the field at GBSC3 switched on and aware things can go awry in a grand final.

Sportsmans’ Jo Walker won the toss and batted, but player of the match Ashlyn Thompson (4-13) bowled Stacey Jerrard and Amanda Gundry in the first over.

Walker joined Sarah Prickett (17) in a positive stand.

They’d added 21 when Walker misjudged a good length ball from Olivia Bidwell (2-15) and popped a catch to Thompson.

Thompson also bowled Prickett and Belinda Burrows and Sporties were 5-31, but rallied thanks to Tia Hatch (20), who looks a player with batting ability.

She added 40 with Stacey McCartney, Michelle Steel and Ros Barnes, before being stranded by a well flighted Layne Gillingham ball and stumped by Meg Spalding.

Abby Green (2-8) chimed in with a couple of wickets and Sportsmans finished their 20 overs at 9-79.

The Wanderers’ attack was skilled with solid support from Kasey Maynard and Chelsea Bidwell.

Though she bowled well, Sporties kept Sam Biddiscombe wicketless for the only time this season.

The fielding was mostly good, with Lucy Gallop and Tammy Solomon doing their bit enthusiastically.

Wanderers lost an early wicket in the chase when Hatch had Spalding caught by Steel.

It was juggled, but to her relief Steel completed the grab.

Sportsmans didn’t get another wicket until 45 runs were posted, when Charli Bidwell (24), a big improver, was castled by a Walker ball that turned appreciably.

Green (29) was next to go after a fine innings to make it 3-66 and Wanderers, with Olivia Bidwell and Biddiscombe now finding runs at will, sealed it with 23 balls to spare.