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Young Motors Women’s Cricket grand final: Wanderers achieve hat-trick after rain washes out decider

Victor TantiGeraldton Guardian
Wanderers celebrate their grand final win last year.
Camera IconWanderers celebrate their grand final win last year. Credit: Jake Santa Maria/RegionalHUB

Wanderers completed a hat-trick of Young Motors Women’s Cricket premierships though not in the manner they wanted.

The grand final between Wanderers and Sporties was set for a 6pm start at Wonthella on Saturday, with players from both sides keen to play before a big crowd under lights.

But persistent rain put paid to that and not a ball was bowled.

After consultation, Wanderers, who as minor premiers finished higher on the ladder, were awarded the cup and medals.

It was hoped the game could be rescheduled but with most players away next weekend in Bunbury for Women’s Country Week, that was not possible.

Sporties coach Brad Mailer said the decision to award the flag to Wanderers was fair.

“The decision was made to the best of our ability by those involved, the coaches, captains and umpires,” Mailer said.

“Sportsmans Cricket Club fully accept the decision and extend our congratulations to Wanderers and also that the benefit lies with the side that finished top of the table.

“We can now focus on Country Week where we will aim to deliver our best for Geraldton cricket.”

Wanderers coach Bruce Gillingham echoed Mailer’s comments and agreed refixturing was not feasible.

“The umpires had to make a decision about playing and that decision was made, it was too wet to play and the forecast for the next day (Sunday) was not good,” Gillingham said.

“The captains and coaches were also part of the decision and everyone accepted it, shook hands and moved on.”

Both Gillingham and Mailer called on the Geraldton Regional Cricket Board to put firm rulings in place to allow the women’s grand final to be rescheduled in case of poor weather.

Both also noted policies for extreme heat need to be formulated, and for the same playing rules in A-grade, B-grade and women’s cricket.

Rained out grand finals have a history as the 1998-99 A-grade decider was abandoned because of heavy rain.

The 2002-03 grand final probably should have been called off but was moved to a hard wicket at Green St despite a wet outfield and dangerous run-ups.

A play-off for third place was played yesterday on a hard wicket at GBSC3 and comfortably won by Towns.

Dirranie Kirby made an unbeaten 54 to take her season tally to 315 runs at an average of 35.

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