Breakers roll in

In their first year in the competition – due to last year’s regional realignment – the Breakers claimed the silverware after chasing down the Pioneers’ score of 193.

“We are very proud of the boys,” coach David Johnstone said. 

Reverting to the 50-over form of the game, Johnstone noted that after losing the toss, it was important for his side to take early wickets and keep the Pioneers to a score of under 200.

Adam Hutton was potent in the Breakers bowling attack, taking 4-27 from 8.4 overs and winning the player of the final.

“He bowled very well,” Johnstone said.

“He picked up early wickets which was very important as the Pioneers top order is very strong.”

In the batting line-up, Josh Manning produced yet another standout performance, top scoring with 51.

Throughout the tournament, Manning impressed with both his batting and bowling figures, earning him the player of the series award (tied with the Pioneers’ Dylan Quirk with nine votes).

“He had a fantastic series and he also captained the team very well,” Johnstone said.

With support from Lincoln Edwards (47), Comrey Edgeworth (21), Jak Jowett (14) and Alexander Bychkov (13), the Breakers piled on the runs to make 195 and surpass the Pioneers’ total to win the Championship.

However, aside from being crowned the State Champions, the most exciting part of the day for both teams was the honour of playing on the hallowed turf of the MCG.

“We had a good contribution right down the batting line which was important in the last few overs to get us over the line,” Johnstone said.

“The boys rolled up at 9:30am for a 12pm start…. they just spent their time soaking up the atmosphere and had smiles on their faces all day. It was terrific.

“It really was just a great day on the ‘G.”

Story kindly provided to Cricket Victoria by Sarah Carpinteri.