Match Centre

Glorious day, tough result!

Rockhampton won the toss and chose to bat first on a warm afternoon, and their decision paid immediate dividends. Their openers laid a dominant platform with a 151-run partnership for the first wicket, punishing anything loose and capitalising on a few dropped chances in the field. Despite a stronger showing from Bourton’s bowlers in the latter stages, aided by 40 extras, Rockhampton finished on a strong 235-5 from their 40 overs.

Ben Gillespie led the fightback with an excellent spell of 3-46, while Josh Fielding supported well with 2-45.

In reply, Bourton’s chase got off to the worst possible start with Andy Phillips falling first ball. However, a resilient fourth-wicket partnership between Greg Shepherd (45) and Matt Rose (37) added 73 runs and reignited hopes of chasing down the target. Contributions from John Nicholson (26), Jack Boon (19), and Matt Keyte (19) kept things interesting, but regular wickets meant the momentum never fully swung back in Bourton’s favour.

Ultimately, the hosts were bowled out for 187, falling 48 runs short of the target.

Result: Rockhampton 2nd XI won by 48 runs.

Plenty to take forward as the lads look to bounce back next weekend.