Ready for battle at national championships

In a re-match of last year’s decider, the arch-rivals will once again go head-to-head, with the hosts hoping for a different result on this occasion.

Victorian coach Duncan Harrison said his team was looking to create its own history.

“They are a good cricket team, make no mistake about it,” Harrison said prior to today’s toss.

“We’ve talked about not fearing them and the preparation that we have put in since June.

“They’ve got the ability, so it’s up to them now.”

During yesterday’s final round-robin match, Victoria lost its first match of the campaign as South Australia secured a three-wicket victory.

Having won the toss and elected to bat, Victoria posted 7-133 thanks largely to a fine half-century from Western Spirit’s Nicola Hancock.

Hancock top-scored with 50 from 94 balls including three boundaries and six and received solid support from Southern Pioneers’ Alana King (26) as the pair put on 78 for the fourth wicket.

In reply, South Australia chased down the total with 23 balls to spare.

Mallee Murray quick Rhiann O’Donnell continued her fine campaign with 2-9, while Gippsland spinner Sophie Molineux snared 2-19.

The Final of the Under-18 National Championships will commence at 10am today.

To see a full scorecard from the Under-18 National Championships, click here.