01.04.2008 – Nick Bailey
Sydney University’s Sixth Grade Cricket side has claimed the Metropolitan Cup, defeating South Sydney on Sunday in the Final at University Oval No.1.
Bowling first, Sydney Uni dismissed South Sydney for 190, with Tim Croft taking 6 wickets, ably supported in the first innings by Ben Joy (2 wickets) and Michael Jeffery (1 wicket).
In reply Uni bounced back from the precarious position of 3-40 early in their innings to be 4/149 by the end of the first day’s play.
An impressive partnership of 109 between Chris Slaviero (54) and Mark Jeffery (84) was the highlight of the innings, as University finished all out for 217, capturing a first innings lead of 27.
A match-winning bowling performance by University restricted Souths to just 117 all out in their second innings, Ben Joy leading the way with 5 wickets. Chasing 91 for victory, University passed the required total at 2-94 to post a comprehensive 8 wicket outright victory.
Sydney University Cricket Club Secretary Geoff De Mesquita applauded the efforts of the University side. “The fact that it was a finals match against much older and more experienced opposition makes the victory all the more impressive.” he said, “To chase down the opposition in both innings, with a side as young as ours, was an outstanding performance.”
With most of the side only 18 or 19 years old, the future of Sydney University cricket looks to be in safe hands. The cup victory capped off a fantastic year for 19 year old captain Andrew Rhodes. “He has captained the side with great distinction, it has been a wonderful season for him” De Mesquita said.
