Drysdale win Geelong Renegades Girls League final

DRYSDALE Nancy completed their rapid rise to the top of the Geelong Renegades Girls League, wining the Stage 3 grand final at Newcomb’s Ervin Reserve on Sunday.Drysdale moved up to Stage 3 having had a superb first season in Stage 2.

Drysdale junior co-ordinator Shelley Sykes said the club was initially “a bit iffy” about the inexperienced team taking such a big step up but were delighted to see them thrive.

“It was definitely the best decision we made by keeping them in that division (Stage 3).”

There they made the grand final but were narrowly beaten by Barrabool.

Meeting once more in the grand final this season, Drysdale started well, batting first and scoring 6/105 in their 20 overs.

Just as they did the previous year, Barrabool provided strong opposition, but were unable to close the deficit, finishing 8/75.

Drysdale’s depth was clear during the game, with Sykes saying she was elated to see everyone contribute.

“I couldn’t even pick out an individual, because as a team they played exceptionally well.”

Kirah Atkinson was awarded player of the match by the umpires. She made an unbeaten 16 with the bat before taking 1/22 in her four overs.

Tess Craven made a similarly crucial all-round contribution. She scored 22 and took 1/7 in her three overs.

The team is the only female side at Drysdale Cricket Club, but Sykes says they are hoping to change this.

“It would be great if we could establish a women’s team in the near future. It would also be great to get three stages of girls cricket at our club.”