WAGGA RSL completed a remarkable turnaround to claim the under 16 Wagga and District premiership with a nail-biting three-wicket victory over St Michaels on Saturday.
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It was a sweet victory for the Bulldogs after they were staring down the barrel of the wooden spoon after five rounds.
Wagga RSL entered the grand final as underdogs but ripped through St Michaels’ batting line-up to dismiss the Saints for 59.
The Bulldogs got home with three wickets in hand, courtesy of a stylish 25 from talented batsman Harry Reynolds.
Wagga RSL coaches Michael Kirkman and Michael Reynolds put the team’s success down to the boys’ enjoyment of each other’s company and the game, as well as their commitment to training.
In Saturday’s final, Wagga RSL bowled and fielded exceptionally well to have St Michaels at 6-16. A swashbuckling 23 from Toby Lawler helped the Saints to a total of 59.
Wagga RSL captain Josh Staines took five catches, while Abdullah Farah shone in the field with a slick run-out.
Bulldogs opening bowler Mitchell Salan took 4-4 in a brilliant five-over spell, and he was ably supported by Ned Sainsbury (2-11), James Forwood (1-12).
In reply, Wagga RSL were in early trouble at 3-18 before Reynolds came to the rescue. Kyle Hall was the pick of the Saints’ bowlers with three wickets.
Cousins, Josh Conlan (Wagga RSL) and Matthew Howe (St Michaels) also put in impressive displays of pace bowling.