Lorne and Deans Marsh commemorate local cricket icon

THE Lorne and Deans Marsh cricket clubs shared the field on Friday night to commemorate the life of local cricket stalwart Dave Harvey who took his own life in 2009.

Mr Harvey was both a Lorne and Deans Marsh local at different points of his life and played cricket at both clubs, winning many awards and taking on several committee and sub-committee roles in his career including secretary.

He was known as a great companion and mate, and someone who was an integral part of both local communities.

The Dave Harvey Memorial Cup was celebrated on Friday evening under lights for first time in 10 years, after Lorne emerged from recession this summer and padded up for their first season since 2012.

The friendly match marked the fourth time the fixture had been run, with Lorne going in with a 3-0 ledger, winning both matches in 2009 and the last match in 2012.

Out on the field, Deans Marsh won the toss and elected to bat first, blasting 157 runs with Leigh Mcllvenny top scoring with 54 runs.

During the break there was a sausage sizzle between the two clubs and spectators, then Lorne went out to bat under the lights.

A slow start due to some great bowling by Deans Marsh pair Harry Carmody and Toby Permezel, meant Lorne achieved a total of 104 runs, falling short by 53 runs.

Ryan Heathcote top scored for the home team with 26 runs.

The Dave Harvey Memorial Cup was presented to the best adjudged player Leigh Mcllvenny for his efforts with both the bat and the wicketkeeping gloves.

Deans Marsh Cricket Club secretary Jake Hall said he was thrilled with the level of camaraderie shown both on and off the field by both sides.

“The match was played in really good spirits, and it was a good wholesome night.

“It was a really good turnout for the match under lights and we were super happy to be part of it.

“I didn’t know Dave personally, but there is certainly a bit of history there between the two clubs and about what he has done.

“We were thrilled to be part of it.”

Hall and Lorne Cricket Club president Darren Balderas both hope to run a special fixture of the event again in the 2022-23 season.