Huge weekend of cricket at Barrack Reserve

TWO crucial contests will be played on Heathcote’s Barrack Reserve this Saturday and Sunday as the Castlemaine District Cricket Associaton marks rounds 13 and 14.

Fifth on the A-Reserve ladder, Heathcote faces Newstead from 1pm on Saturday.

The Saints face Campbells Creek Colts in Sunday’s play.

The Saints will be fired up after a seven-wicket loss to North Castlemaine in the round 12 showdown in Heathcote.

It was a dramatic finish to the Heathcote and Newstead clash on 9 November at Newstead.

The Saints scored 6/191 as Daniel Butler (64), Tim Gleeson (46) and captain Rhys Ashen (34) starred in the top order.

After being 6/77 in the chase, Newstead struck back through the play of Chris Elderfield (41), Faolan Gardner (38n.o.) and Ciaran Gardner (34). The final wicket fell in the 40th over as the Ian Garsed-captained Steaders finished on 189.

Heathcote’s opening bowler Ben Poulton captured 4/44 off eight overs.

Spin bowler Nick Malavisi claimed 3/36 and Alex Williamson took two wickets for the Saints.

Standings in the CDCA’s A-Reserve premiership race: North Castlemaine 96, Taradale 90, Castlemaine United 90, Campbells Creek Colts 66, Heathcote 66, Muckleford 66, Newstead 54, Harcourt 42, Maiden Gully Lions 6.

Other matches on Saturday will be Castlemaine United at home against Muckleford, and Harcourt hosts North Castlemaine. Maiden Gully Lions have the bye.

On Sunday it will be North Castlemaine Lions against Maiden Gully Lions, Castlemaine United plays Taradale, Harcourt faces Newstead, and Muckleford has the bye.