Cricket Update

A very successful weekend for the club, with winning draws to both the Premier and Grade 3 sides. The Reserves came close, missing out by 4 runs.

See the below scorecards:

Premier

https://www.crichq.com/#matches/220362/1st_innings

Matt Kelly has 33 wickets for the season (4/20 and 4/11) 
Mark Houghton has 677 runs for the season (44 against Johnsonville) Also this is a club record, most runs in a season. Previously held by Keith Parsons in 1992.

Against Johnsonville Phil Tunnicliffe and Sam Le Gros played their 50th games for Taita, well done guys.

We are currently in second place in Pearce Cup 2.97 points behind leaders Onslow.

Premier Reserve

https://www.crichq.com/#matches/223157/1st_innings

Sam McGavin 96* Luke Dingle 56

Grade 3

https://www.crichq.com/#matches/220468/1st_innings

Connor Bliss 79 and Mark Haste 40, Hayden Moore 4/50

Elsewhere wins were recorded by Kamos, Legends, Squashies and Womens.

Here is this weekends draw (14/02/2015)

Premier (Day 1) vs Karori, Fraser Park 1 at 11am

Premier Reserve (Day 1) vs North City, Linden Park 1 at 11am

Grade 3 (Day 1) vs Upper Hutt Massif, Fraser Park 2 at 12:30pm

TDCC Kamos vs Hutt Districts Legends, Fraser Park 3 at 2pm

TDCC Fireblades vs Stokes Valley, Fraser Park 6A at 2pm

TDCC Legends vs Northen Park, Fraser Park 5A at 2pm

TDCC Squashies vs Wainuiomata Rosco, Fraser Park 7A at 2pm

TDCC Womens vs Petone- Riverside, Petone Rec 4 at 2pm

TAITA DISTRICT CRICKET CLUB NEWSLETTER

5TH DECEMBER 

Last week's outstanding performances

. Shaun Gillespie 5/28 Premier Reserve vs North City
. Phil Tunnicliffe 50* (including 5 sixes) vs North City
. Sam Le Gros 53* not out vs North City

Cricket update

The worm has turned two very good results from the Premier and Premier Reserves on Saturday have put both teams back in contention to make the top six at the end of the one day competition.

The Premiers put North City in to bat and dismissed them for 133, with Phil Tunnicliffe taking 4/28. In reply Taita chased down the target in 16.3 overs one down with Sam Le Gros 53* and Phil Tunnicliffe 50*

The Premiers are in 10th spot on 16 points but we have a game in hand, as we play the Wellington Under 19's at home on the 11th of January.

The Reserves batted first on a green slow track and stumbled to 143, with Cole O'Connor getting 35. In reply we bowled them out for 119 with Shaun Gillespie getting his first five wicket bag for the Reserves taking 5/28

The Grade 3 side are in a strong position against Wellington Indian Sports, after bowling them out for 126 we are 170/8 at stumps.

The shock result of the round was seeing the TDCC Legends going down for the first time this season. A bit of work to do Paul, for the huge local derby on Saturdayat home against the Squashies.

T20 vs Naenae (03/12/2014)

Great win in the T20 last night, after batting first we got off to a shaky start before Mark (32) and Nik Swain (23) put on 59 for the third wicket. A useful cameo from Tim Brown (20) saw us to 119/9 off our 20 overs.

In reply Naenae, never really got going at the start but a few late partnerships developed late in the innings. Mark and Hamish chipped in with 2 wickets each. We fielded really well and held our catches. 

The match ended coming down to the last over where 10 runs were required. Step up Andrew Sturt, an outstanding last over as he only conceded only 2 runs! Good to see Andrew back steaming in.

Taita 119/9 (Mark Houghton 32) 
Naenae 112/8 (Mark Houghton 2/20, Hamish Blomfield 2/12)

Scorecard below:

https://www.crichq.com/#matches/206134/1st_innings

Fraser One -update

Following discussions with the groundsman, Cricket Wellington and Lower Hutt City Council it has been confirmed that our number one wicket will not be available until the 10th of January.

We are monitoring the situation and have expressed our concerns to Cricket Wellington.

The Premiers first home game of the season will be against the Wellington under 19 in the final one day round on the 11th of January.

This Saturdays games (06/12/2014)

Premier vs Wellington Collegians, Anderson Park 1 at 11am 
Premier Reserve vs Wellington Collegians, Fraser Park 3 at 11am 
Grade 3 (day two) vs Wellington Indian Sports, Fraser Park 2 at 12:30pm
TDCC Legends vs TDCC Squashies, Fraser Park 6A at 2pm
TDCC Women vs Petone-Riverside, Fraser 5A at 2pm

The Premier side would appreciate your support as they take on Collegians at Anderson Park. Or if you feel like staying local, you could come down to Fraser Park and watch the Reserves, Grade Three and our T20 sides in action. 

Game of the week

Legends v Squashies, Fraser Park 6A at 2pm

Xmas Function 20th December

Save the date.... 20th December will be the eagerly awaited first social event of the season. The social committee headed by Chris Tait and Kieran McComb invite you and your friends to the Taita Xmas party with a weird Beer Pong twist..Get the word out and get there.. 

More details to follow shortly...

Colts
The Colts Academy is back under way, the boys had a good training on Sunday to get back into the swing of things, and first game is this coming Sunday against Hutt at Fraser Park 3 at 2pm.

Juniors
The Taita juniors coached by Henry Skipper are tracking very nicely, having a couple of really close loses in the past few weeks.

Junior Zone Cricket
Isaiah Winera from our junior team is playing some really good cricket in the Wellington zone tournament, putting in some good efforts with ball in hand, and has been invited to partake in the Hawkes Bay tournament over the Christmas break with the Upper Hutt City zone team. Best of luck to Isaiah.

Clothing for Sale

1 Taita Cricket hoodies- $80 - two available Extra Large, 2 XL
2. Playing shirts - $40- ten in stock sizes Medium to Extra Large
3. Taita Cricket caps - $15 -- if you wish to purchase a cap we can order them in
4. After atch polo shirts -- the club has been requested by club members to provide a club dress shirt, these are for sale at $30 each. 

If you wish to purchase any of these items please advise Anna-Maria behind the bar/ speak with Shaun or Dave Gillespie or email taitacricket@gmail.com with the description of what item of clothing you would like to purchase and the size.

We will order the after match shirts in bulk so please email us with your shirt size if you wish to purchase one.

Payments should be made to the bar via Anna-Maria or to Taita Cricket bank account 03 0531 0318974 00 when ordering your clothing.

Kitchen and Bar 

The kitchen under the new ownership of Chelsea McHugh will be open from 1pm on Saturday and the Bar will be open from 4pm. 

Communication channels 

We will be using Facebook as a key communications channel this summer, if you have not liked us here is the link. Also please share with your friends - https://www.facebook.com/#!/taitacricket

Live scores on CricHQ
You can follow the Premiers progress live each Saturday 
http://www.cricketwellington.co.nz/community/senior/draws-and-results/

Subscriptions 

All player subscriptions are now overdue, running the cricket club is an expensive exercise, if you have paid - thanks very much. If you have not paid please do so ASAP

You can pay at the bar or via the club bank account

The club bank account is 03 0531 0318974 00 - Please record your name in the reference field

Taitanium Club 
This year season we will be holding the Taitanium lunch on Saturday the 21st of February; this luncheon will be smack bang in the middle of the World Cup games between the NZ v England and England v Sri Lanka games. We will be strongly marketing this event, including inviting members of the Barmy Army to partake.
If you want to guarantee attendance at this function please sign up for your Taitanium membership ASAP
- $70 Taitanium members (existing members)
- $90 Taitanium members (new members)

Also we are looking for an innovative and humours cricket guest speaker for the lunch, if you know of anyone we could approach please reply to taitacricket@gmail.com

Sponsors/Partners
Taita Cricket would like to welcome all our sponsors and we would like to thank you all for your support. It is up to us all to support these sponsors and partners as they all play a critical role in our on-going success.

Petone Radiators
Petone Radiators is Taita Cricket's Principle Sponsor. When it comes to radiator repair, and the health of your car's heating and cooling systems, give Petone Radiators (2008) Ltd a call. Al can fix or replace your radiator, and take care of your air conditioning and heating. (04) 568 6857
http://petoneradiators.co.nz

The Station Village
Fancy a beer on a warm Sunday afternoon, or any afternoon/evening for that matter. Visit Graham at the Station Village or Whistle Stop, they have a TAB. State you're from Taita Cricket and you might get a small discount off your beer
https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Parrot-and-Jigger-Bar/162463397140937

Maidstone Sports
Trevor has been a long term sponsor of Taita Cricket and is the sponsor of our junior program. If you need to purchase any sports gear, visit Trevor at 2 Geange Street Upper Hutt - (04) 5297342
https://www.facebook.com/maidstonesportspower

Kevin Dee Realty Ltd
For the largest range of vacant warehouses, factories and workshops, live-in warehouses, yard space and industrial land available in the greater Wellington region head to Kevin Dee Realty - Wellington Warehouses
http://wellingtonwarehouses.co.nz/

KooGa
In 2012 Taita District Cricket Club (TDCC) joined forces with KooGa NZ to produce an exciting cricket team wear range for the 2012/13 season.
KooGa NZ has developed well-constructed garments using innovative fabrics and designs for the modern player. KooGa's aim is to set a high standard for the cricket player producing team wear that is second to none.
TDCC appreciates the enthusiasm and time given by Jake, Rhys, Lizzie and the team at KooGa NZ in producing high quality designs Taita District Cricket Club can be proud to wear.
http://kooga.co.nz/

Action Teamphysio
Action Teamphysio are situated in central Lower Hutt and have a full onsight rehabilitation Gym, Personal Trainer, massage therapist and awesome Physiotherapists. They aim to help you recover quickly and efficiently as well as teaching you a few things about your rehab along the way.
Taita Cricket Club is proud to announce we have affiliated our club with Action Teamphysio and in doing so can offer club members $10.00 co-payments for all ACC approved injuries.
This is for the duration of the 2014/2015 cricket season so make the most of this great opportunity and support the club by taking all your injuries to Action Teamphysio.

Contact Details are:
Level 1 Mackay House 92 Queens Drive,
Lower Hutt 6022
04 939 3300

Shaun Gillespie
Taita District Cricket Club
Club Manager

Mobile: 027 425 8172

Fraser Park, Taita
www.taitacricket.co.nz

TAITA DISTRICT CRICKET NEWSLETTER

19th November 

Celebration of outstanding performances
It is important to recognise outstanding performances.
Scoring 100 runs or taking a seven wicket bag - Station Village voucher
A five wicket bag or scoring fifty runs - two free drinks from the bar*

*must be at the clubrooms on the day of achieving the milestone to receive the two free drinks

Last weeks outstanding performance was Hayden Moore (Grade 3 vs Easts) 6/25, well done.

Cricket update
Not the start to the season that the Premier's and the Reserves were expecting. After Saturday's loss to University the Premiers are in 10th spot with two wins from five games, the team will be looking to strongly bounce back against Hutt Districts at Hutt Rec on Saturday.

The Premier Reserves after a good first up win against Naenae have stumbled in their last four games, like the Premiers the team is looking to bounce back against Hutt Districts at Fraser Park on Saturday.

The clubs only undefeated team the "Mighty Legends" under the stewardship of one Paul McNelis is looking to make it four from four when they take on Northern Park at Fraser 3 on Saturday.

Fraser One
You might be wondering why the Premiers have only had one home game so far this season. This is due to the issues we had with our number one cricket wicket last season, the council agreed to renovate our wicket prior to the start of the season. For reasons unknown this work started very late and as we speak the wicket is still at least three weeks away from being ready. 

This situation is most unsatisfactory; however the club is working very hard with Cricket Wellington and the Council to resolve the issues. 

At this stage the next Premier home game was set down for the 29th of November against North City, this game will be transferred to Linden Park. At earliest the Reserves will trial the upgraded block on the 6th of December. 

The real disappointment here is that the Premier team is unlikely to play at home before xmas. We will keep you posted.

This Saturdays games 
Premier vs Hutt Districts, Hutt Rec 1 at 11am 

Premier Reserve vs Hutt Districts, Fraser Park 2 at 11am 

Grade 3 vs Wellington Indian Sports, Fraser Park 4 at 12:30pm

TDCC Kamos vs Hutt Districts Legends, Fraser Park 6A at 2pm

TDCC Fireblades vs Stokes Valley, Delaney Park 3A at 2pm

TDCC Legends vs Northern Park, Fraser Park 3 at 2pm

TDCC Squashies vs Upper Hutt Piwakawaka, TMP 6 at 2pm

TDCC Women vs Eastern Suburbs Wildcats, Fraser Park 7A at 2pm

The Premier side would appreciate your support as they take on Hutt Districts at Hutt Rec. Or if you feel like staying local, you could come down to Fraser Park and watch the Reserves, Grade Three and our T20 sides in action.

First Premier T20 game of the season *Tonight*
Tonight the Premiers take on Petone-Eastbourne in the first round of the T20 competition at Petone Rec 5 (Jackson street end of Petone Rec) starting at 5pm. Come down mid-week and support your team.

Junior Cricket
We are running a junior cricket session for year 1,2 and 3 students at Fraser Park, the sessions take place on a Friday at 4:30 and run until 5:30. The last session for the year will be 12th December. In the sessions we cover off the fundamental skills required to play cricket in a fun and relaxed environment, with plenty of drills and games.

Junior Representatives Honours 
We would like to congratulate Isaiah Winera and Esera Andrews on being selected to trial for the year 8 Hutt Valley zone team; if the weather doesn't intervene they will play their first game this Sunday at Kilbirnie Park. All the best Isaiah and Esera.

Girls Cricket
This year we have entered a team in the Girls College Youth Grade, the team consists of girls from Taita College and St Oran's and they played their first game last weekend, they had a close loss to Hutt Districts at Fraser Park in a T20. Best of luck girls, for the remainder of the season

Clothing for Sale

1 Taita Cricket Hoodies- $80 - six available Large and Extra Large

2. Playing Shirts - $40- ten in stock sizes Medium to Extra Large

3. Taita Cricket caps - $15 -- if you wish to purchase a cap we can order them in

4. After Match Polo Shirts -- the club has been requested by club members to provide a club dress shirt, these are for sale at $30 each. 

If you wish to purchase any of these items please advise Anna-Maria behind the bar/ speak with Shaun or Dave Gillespie or email taitacricket@gmail.com with the description of what item of clothing you would like to purchase and the size

We will order the after match shirts in bulk so please email taitacricket@gmail.comwith your shirt size if you wish to purchase one.

Payments should be made to the bar via Anna-Maria or to Taita Cricket bank account 03 0531 0318974 00 when ordering your clothing

Fraser Park Association AGM
2014 Annual General Meeting  
Date: Sunday 23 November
Time:  2pm 
Venue: Taita Cricket Clubrooms 

The 2014 annual report will be made available at the AGM.

Kitchen and Bar 

The kitchen under the new ownership of Chelsea McHugh will be open from 1pm on Saturday and the Bar will be open from 4pm. 

Communication channels 

We will be using Facebook as a key communications channel this summer, if you have not liked us here is the link. Also please share with your friends - https://www.facebook.com/#!/taitacricket

Live scores on CricHQ
You can follow the Premiers progress live each Saturday 
http://www.cricketwellington.co.nz/community/senior/draws-and-results/

Subscriptions 
If you want to receive the 10% discount on your subs please make payment at the bar or into the clubs bank account in full by the 1st of December. The club bank account is 03 0531 0318974 00 - Please record your name in the reference field

Taitanium Club 
This year season we will be holding the Taitanium lunch on Saturday the 21st of February; this luncheon will be smack bang in the middle of the World Cup games between the NZ v England and England v Sri Lanka games. We will be strongly marketing this event, including inviting members of the Barmy Army to partake.

If you want to guarantee attendance at this function please sign up for your Taitanium membership ASAP

- $70 Taitanium members (existing members)
- $90 Taitanium members (new members)

New Sponsor- Action Teamphysio
Action Teamphysio are situated in central Lower Hutt and have a full onsight rehabilitation Gym, Personal Trainer, massage therapist and awesome Physiotherapists. They aim to help you recover quickly and efficiently as well as teaching you a few things about your rehab along the way.

Taita Cricket Club is proud to announce we have affiliated our club with Action Teamphysio and in doing so can offer club members $10.00 co-payments for all ACC approved injuries.
This is for the duration of the 2014/2015 cricket season so make the most of this great opportunity and support the club by taking all your injuries To Action Teamphysio.

Contact Details are:
Level 1 Mackay House 92 Queens Drive,
Lower Hutt 6022
04 939 3300

Sponsors/Partners

Taita Cricket would like to welcome all our sponsors to the 2014/15 season and we would like to thank you all for your support. It is up to us all to support these sponsors and partners as they all play a critical role in our on-going success.

Petone Radiators

Petone Radiators is Taita Cricket's Principle Sponsor. When it comes to radiator repair, and the health of your car's heating and cooling systems, give Petone Radiators (2008) Ltd a call. Al can fix or replace your radiator, and take care of your air conditioning and heating. (04) 568 6857
http://petoneradiators.co.nz

The Station Village

Fancy a beer on a warm Sunday afternoon, or any afternoon/evening for that matter. Visit Graham at the Station Village or Whistle Stop, they have a TAB. State you're from Taita Cricket and you might get a small discount off your beer
https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Parrot-and-Jigger-Bar/162463397140937

Maidstone Sports

Trevor has been a long term sponsor of Taita Cricket and is the sponsor of our junior program. If you need to purchase any sports gear, visit Trevor at 2 Geange Street Upper Hutt - (04) 5297342
https://www.facebook.com/maidstonesportspower

Kevin Dee Realty Ltd

For the largest range of vacant warehouses, factories and workshops, live-in warehouses, yard space and industrial land available in the greater Wellington region head to Kevin Dee Realty - Wellington Warehouses
http://wellingtonwarehouses.co.nz/

KooGa

In 2012 Taita District Cricket Club (TDCC) joined forces with KooGa NZ to produce an exciting cricket team wear range for the 2012/13 season.
KooGa NZ has developed well-constructed garments using innovative fabrics and designs for the modern player. KooGa's aim is to set a high standard for the cricket player producing team wear that is second to none.
TDCC appreciates the enthusiasm and time given by Jake, Rhys, Lizzie and the team at KooGa NZ in producing high quality designs Taita District Cricket Club can be proud to wear.
http://kooga.co.nz/

Shaun Gillespie
Taita District Cricket Club
Club Manager

Mobile: 027 425 8172

Fraser Park, Taita
www.taitacricket.co.nz

2013/14 PRIZE-GIVING WINNERS

Thanks to all that came to the 2013/14 Taita Distict Cricket Club prize-giving. For those that missed it, click here to see the winners

Grade 3 One Day Champions!

Massive congratulations to the Grade 3 boys on taking out the one day title.

Upper Hutt 126/9 off 45 overs lost to Taita 134/1 off 16 overs. Special mention goes to James Ross 3-18, Hadyen Moore 4-23 & Johnny Nippert, hitting 76 not out, including some almighty lusty 6's.

Well deserved on the silverware lads, the club is proud of you!

Check out the scorecard

2013/14 Grade 3 one day champions

Grade 3 One Day Final - Taita vs Upper Hutt

Head down and support James Ross and his team as they endeavor to bring long awaited silverware to the TDCC trophy cabinet. When they take on Upper Hutt Massif in the one day final for Grade 3. This team is on track for the Grade 3 title as well, and would like your support when they aim for both titles. Bar will be open from 1pm, with the BBQ as well from late afternoon. 

This team has for some time been one of Taita's most successful teams over the years, as well as always arguably the best supporter of the club/bar, so lets repay them this support by heading along to Fraser 1 and making some noise.

Look forward to seeing you all there!

Taita Cricket Club - Sunday 30th March, 12:30pm

Thanks ANZ Cricket Grants

Taita V Colleginas

Taita Premier Reserve V Collegians @ Anderson Park

Captain Jaysen Doyle continued his horror form, losing the toss on what looked to be a good batting wicket. After tight opening spells and an early wicket Taita looked off to a good start, but that’s where the majority of the positives for the first day ended. The combination of a small ground, only having 10 players and poor discipline from the bowling unit saw Collegians get 409 first innings runs. The shining light for Taita came in the form of Sam ‘Shooter’ McGavin’s 7 wicket haul. Honourable mentions must also be made to Jonny Hare, filling in with some tidy work behind the stumps, and Jack Walsh for his perseverance to play-on despite a lack of sleep and a large hangover.

After a long 75 overs chasing leather batting was always going to be a tough task. The top order failed to fire and we ended up at 70 odd for 5 at the end of a tough first days play. A welcome weeks rest saw the second half of the innings fare better than the first. Ben Rammell got a tidy 46 on his return to the crease after a brief stopover in China, and Phil Carruthers struck some lusty blows on the way to a quick-fire 27 (losing a ball down the bank in the process) for a team total of 173. Predictably, we were made to follow on. Batting to save the day Strut opened up playing as if it were the final over of a T20, and was going well until controversially given out caught behind by Copey for 16. John Stone and Pat Houghton played solid defensive games, looking solid at the crease showing a lot of will power and grit, whereas Rammell (52) and Doyle (131) played their shots and got rewarded well. Wolf in particular was hitting cleanly all around the wicket. His innings looked something like this:

Artists illustration of Jason Doils 131 wagon wheel

Taita held on for a well-earned draw. After making Collegians field for 100 overs it honestly felt like we’d won. To make the game complete, a stag do turned up in the later stages of the second day, treating the players to some incredibly shit-house banter and a second streaker of the match. A good days cricket really. Check out the scorecard

Written by Aaron Cope

Prize-giving 2013/14

Join us for a glamorous night at the Taita District Cricket Club to celebrate the many achievements over the 2013/14 season. 

• Saturday 6th April
• Pre drinks from 6pm
• Bar specials all night
• $10 per person includes a light meal
• Dj Schofer spinning the decks

All partners, friends & family welcome
Register via taitacricket@gmail.com or at the club bar

Premier Reserve - February wrap-up

8th and 15th of February vs. Onslow.

With many of the younger generation having never ventured to Nairnville, there were a few late-comers. Fortunately Captain Doyle won his first toss in a couple of months and chose to bat on what looked a very batter friendly wicket. Bourne (returning to his 2012/13 form) and Swain (backing up from his 1c tequilas) proved the pitch observation correct, putting on 140+ for the first wicket, before Bourne missed a straight one just before lunch to be dismissed for 50. Swain (despite several Powerade-coloured yacks during lunch) battled through his developing hangover and scored his maiden Taita (and personal) hundred (121) in his final game of the season. Brownie (34) and Doyle (55) chipped in, and saw us through to a very competitive 310-7 declared from 75 overs.

With a session to bowl, we were confident of chipping out a few wickets and restricting runs, to make it very difficult for Onlsow the following week. Cope bowled his best spell in a Taita uniform (1-17 from 8), and got his first first-class scalp in nicking off Stuart Rhodes (celebrated by throwing high-fives/elbows all over the show). Day one ended with Onslow 120-5, and struggling to avoid follow on. Unfortunately, Day 2 saw us lose our keeper, and Shooter rolled back the years to don the gloves. After a terrific opening spell from Glugsy (3-41 from 14) and new boy Matt Kelly(2-57 from 17), we couldn't sustain pressure and Onlsow battled through to 243-9 from their 75. Just avoiding follow on, and effectively killing the game. All that remained was Taita to bat a session, to end 151-1 (Curtis 29, Doyle 75* and Brown 44*). Despite Onslow now choosing to try and make a game of it (after blocking out 40 overs in the morning for 130 runs), wickets never looked like falling, so no risk was taken to lose our first hard earned two-day points.

22nd and 1st February/March vs. Hutt

What was an incredibly hard week for club captain Seano (a massive shout out for finding 33 players), saw us find out 11th player at 9.30am on the Saturday. With a lot of the old timers at old-timers day, injuries/holidays/weddings/other finally took their toll. Coming up against top of the table Hutt, at full strength was a big ask, let alone with the 5 ring-ins we had to use (another shout-out to Rob Wall, Bestie, J.Walsh, Bill, and Tax for filling in). To make matters tougher, we lost the toss and were put in on a dodgy green looking wicket. Whilst the top older battled, it was tough going against a Premier quality attack, and at 7-2, 13-3, 27-4, 100 looked a long way away. Fortunately Pat (I’m a batter now) Houghton  compiled an attractive 30, and Jack Walsh a hard hit 26 to get us through to 91-7 at lunch. From there, Bill Edwards and Cope showed great ticka, as they batted for almost an hour, before Bill batted with Tax (hadn’t played in 4 years) and Shaun (well, we all know what he’s like with a bat) to see us through to 178, finishing on 56 not out himself. A great debut for the wily veteran.

Sadly, along with our lack of batters, we were light on bowlers too (as well as fielders) and Hutt showed their quality by ending the day 229-4, with a few dropped catches helping them along. Day two started, with Hutt a little weaker, and us a little stronger, but a long way behind the 8-ball. We knocked over the last 6 wickets for 60 runs, with Cope (3-48 from 13), and Matt Kelly (1-22 from 9) doing the damage. Shooter even managed to knock the last one over, picking up his first ever wicket in a game of cricket (stat checked by Steve Cole).

Hoping to try and set a target later in the day, our 2nd innings started poorly with the top 3 knocked over early, and us stumbling at 23-3 at lunch. The middle order chipped in, but no-one went on to a big score that meant we could safely set a target (CJ – 32, Doyle – 37, Shooter – 40, Bill – a nice double with 31). When Shooter and Walsh fell in a few balls to leave us at 150-7 (only 40 ahead with 40 overs left in the day), we were staring down the barrel. First innings heroes Bill and Cope batted for an hour, before Cope (defying his usual close the eyes and swing technique) batted with Matt Kelly for 45 minutes and Shaun (yes the same one) for almost an hour. Cope ended up 41 from 109 (before finally closing eyes and swinging and missing one) and Shaun finished with a 33 ball 0 not out. Afterwards, Cope tried to compare himself to Brendon McCullum. Hutt needed 106 from the last 8 overs of the day, and gave it a good try, ended up 80-4. A hard earned draw, a moral victory from where we started on Day One. 

Written by Jason Doyle

Taitanium Lunch - Guest speaker Ricki Herbert

When

Saturday 22nd February, 12pm

Where

Taita District Cricket Club, Fraser Park

Guest Speaker

The coach of the undefeated 2010 All Whites World Cup team, Ricki Herbert has been signed on as guest speaker.

Cost:

• Existing Taitanium members $80 (includes free entry to the Taitanium Club lunch, a bottle of wine with the meal and all benefits of non-playing membership)
• New Taitanium members $90 (benefits as per above + Taitanium shirt)
• Non members $35 (includes lunch and the guest speaker)

If you would like to make a higher contribution, this will go straight to boosting the Robin Randall fund.

To register your interest in attending the lunch please email Taitacricket@gmail.com 

“Herbert should be remembered for his immense contribution to football in New Zealand. He leaves an extremely promising crop of young kiwi players ready to kick on ...no matter what job you do, you always hope to leave your organisation in better shape than you found it. There’s no question that Ricki Herbert has done that and he deserves a raucous send-off... ”

— Radio Sport

New Zealand defender Ricki Herbert raising his arm in triumph after scoring New Zealand's goal in a World Cup qualification match in 1981.

“Herbert usually exhibits about as much lip movement as those old Thunderbird puppets, with wooden emotions to match.”

— NZ Herald

#Winning

Premier Reserve: Tiata v Naenae

Location: Fraser Park 2

Toss won by: Naenae who chose to bowl. 

The Rambler and Bourne saw off the new ball admirably, with a certain S. Hewitt not even posing a real threat. Soon after negating a difficult double bouncer, Bourne fell. Enter N. Swain (who had quite politely turned off his Danny Morrison voice for the day). With a burnt off outfield, Swain and The Rambler compiled runs with ease. After bringing up his half century, Swain was dismissed. Enter Ted Bundy. Spurred on by his most hated team playing next door, he sniffed the ink a long way from the end and batted accordingly when a total of 400 was on the cards. The Rambler got close to scoring a deserved hundred before missing a straight one. Enter the Wolf and he followed suit. Enter the Doctor (fresh to the game in his scrubs this week) and he got himself in, only to be undone by a terrific short ball. The bowler finding a very good area on this particular pitch. Enter John Stone, who batted perfectly for the situation and closed out the innings nicely. Unfortunately Shooter on the sidelines put him off in the final over, and he couldn't quite bring up a half century, ending on 48no. 

325 for 5 from our 50 overs. 

NOBCC got off to a decent start with Hewitt bashing a few. M. Kelly got asked to negate the howling Fraser Park wind tunnel and did well. A. Cope struck early and bowled well down wind. Ted was in a hurry as always and worked hard on his sub sixties. S. Gillespie chimed in with a good three for that kept him on top of the leader board going into the Christmas break. J.Doyle demanded a bowl, and The Rambler also got a go after the captain heard of his amazing strike rate. The pick of the bowlers was obviously Patrick Houghton, his day rounded out nicely with a forty dollar parking fine. A maiden (including backyard cricket) fifty from a NOBCC tailender dragged proceedings on and they eventually finished on 196/9. 

Peace, Love and Empathy, 

Zac

Written by Zac Curtis

Rick-it-y Easts bite the dust(bowl) of Kilbirnie

On a typically blustery Saturday, the stage was set for an intense day of cricket when Taita elected to bat first for only the second time this season. Knowing the importance of the occasion and fired up to embrace some feuding, the two Sam’s reigned in their usual A Dot swag to take a more measured approach at the top, respecting the unusually banterless Ricky-Bobby Joseph’s negative lines. A couple of quick wickets saw SGT Le Gros and Phil “I meant to hit it on the ground” Tunnicliffe depart, handing Valch an escape from a hat-trick of thanks-for-coming’s.

Yours truly “the better Deano” fell victim to the pre-drinks curse, handing a chance to the middle order to lick their lips at the opportunity to bat for 25 overs. Henry once again rose to the occasion, bashing a couple of big “sits’” during an impressive 57. James “Creepy” Crowley struck the ball cleanly and sensibly at the other end, joining CJ “Get!” Tait and Howie on the list of important contributions to take the score to a competitive 197. Props to Andrew “former Stream opening bat” Mills for sniffing ink at the death.

In reply, Easts came out guns blazing but did not account for the ever restricting Hamish “Hey!” Blomfield and A. Sturt combination at the top. Mutcha benefited from his mate Andy softening up Major Orton and snuck one through the gate to start the ball rolling for the Taita bowlers. Some freakish fielding from Walsh followed up by a fast, straight one from Millsy had Easts stuttering at 41/3. Despite a middle order rally, the accurate bowling of Taita’s bowlers and the enthusiastic support of their fielders, led ably by CJ’s tireless “CHAHOOING” from the boundary, the pressure told and one by one the wickets tumbled. Some incredible death bowling from specialist Tunny allowed Mark “foot on the throat” Houghton to sneak the last couple of wickets, deservedly picking up the wicket of Sammo “donut” Outtrim to lead the boys to an 11 run victory.

Special mention to the bowlers who toiled into the Kilbirnie wind, 100 shots were definitely earned. A fantastic win for the lads, however next week it’s “nil all boys” so “stay humble”. Check out the scorecard

Written by Sam Dean

Premier Reserves too yolked for Wainui

Survivor was on the minds of many, but taking on Wainui on a Michael Greene-top was enough for Zac 'I honestly lost the toss' Curtis to elect to bat first. Newly hired first officer Ben Rammel produced some masterful stroke play early on, combining nicely with Brownie putting on 69 and 50 respectively. With wickets in hand, some handy work from Bundy and late over hitting from the Dr, Swain and Summer Bays finest Pat Houghton, Taita managed 304 for 5 from their 50 overs.

With a mammoth total to chase, the Wainui openers must have also had survivor on their minds, batting the first 25 overs for 75 runs without losing a wicket. Carmel Smith managed a special double, pulling a hammy then dropping a chance at slip. Kevin McComb's anger came out when he asked the wainui batsman what part of the village he came from. After a quick drink and some hard words from exile island victim Dizzie, Brownie finally managed to wake up and forced a runout to give the much needed breakthrough. This led to Flake and Nippy picking up four wickets each. Both wanted to deprive the other of a five wicket bag, with chances being created but not taken off both bowlers' 10th over. The good boy managed to pick up the final wicket off his first ball, reiterating his skill at the bowling crease.

A big thanks must be given to Pepper, CJ, Shooter and Pat for a terrific post match Survivor. Check out the scorecard

Written by Nik Swain

Under 20’s Schooled by dominant Taita outfit

Sunday saw Taita hosting the Wellington under 20’s at Fraser Park and for the first time this season the No.1 was in use. After Howie gave us the word we were bowling first, the boys got into their stride early. With Eiskalt not letting the effects of Friday night get to him when a calling error was made by the openers and one stump was all he needed to send back Ciaran O'Malley early doors. This set the standard which Sturt and Blomfield followed removing the next 3, leaving Wellington at 4/39.

After an apple crumble of wickets, a steady partnership between Troy Johnson and Taita’s favourite red head Nik Swain who was seen in the early hours of Sunday morning clapping hands with Kevin McComb in hope brezzys was needed. Looking comfortable, a fired up Andrew 'Johnson’ Sturt was handed the ball taking no time at all to remove TJ and then Sushant Balajee in a spell of heat and anger. Nik Swain was left to repair the damage, but was soon cleaned up by a chafed Liam ‘I want to go to town’ Sullivan. Wellington got to 150 for 9 off their 50 overs.

Taita started off in full swing with both Sam’s eager to finish the game as quick as possible with rumors of a Sunday sesh was taking place. Both players produced elegant strokes which saw them both reach half centuries. Dusautoir tried another big one over long mid-on, but was unfortunately caught on the boundary giving the school boys their first scalp. This ended a superb innings by UK lover Sam Le Gros making 63 off 70 balls. However, crowd favourite Phillip ‘stay humble’ Tunni-Cliff was in next and wasn’t there to stick around. Some lusty blows saw the ball dispatched over the ropes sending the old boys into an irrupt frenzy. A quick 26 run partnership – 23 coming from Phil’s Spartan saw the game come to an end. Deano finishing on a well-deserved 58 and Phil notching up a consecutive red-inker which gives Taita positive thoughts going into next week’s top of the table clash against Easts.

Special thanks must go to Henry ‘attack the ball’ Walsh and Chris ‘old man’ Tait for coming. Check out the scorecard

Written by Cole O'Connor

University fail, Taita Graduate with Honours.

Taita Premier 66-1, def. Four Kings University 64/AO

Another rain affected week meant the season debut for Fraser No. 1 was again delayed and the Premier round was resigned to artificials. The start time was delayed by 15 mins with the preceding junior cricket contest running behind schedule. Taita’s best clubman Jacob (last name TBC) featured heavily, most notably for his untamed in-swing deliveries. When the big boys got underway, Hamish ‘pull the chain’ Blomfield was an early candidate for ‘Deita of the day’, catching the outside edge of the long-sweatered opening batsman to be grasped delicately by Sam ‘I refuse to join the Buzz crew’ Le Gros at gully. The cat friendly Andrew ‘rarest of units’ Sturt picked up the 2nd wicket in the same fashion to leave the Uni boys reeling at 2/14 when rain stopped play.

A 2 hour rain delay followed, complete with HRV Cup highlights, Anne’s delicious baked goods, assorted lollies and tinder surprises. Play resumed at 3.15pm with the allotted overs reduced to 33. Millsy knicked off Jimmy Boyle soon after the resumption to continue the Onslow-aught. Mutcha took 2 wickets in as many balls to once again give himself false hope of taking Michelle Pfeifer home. Regular wickets continued to fall, including the self-proclaimed popular dismissal of stumped Crowley, bowled O’Connor.  The Uni boys were dismissed for 64 in the 31st over.

The brothers Sam began the short chase in typical fashion – fast. Sam ‘Mutcha backlift’ Dean chopped one on for 12 which brought Phil ‘double meat pie’ Tunnicliffe to the crease. True to form, Tunny didn’t muck around, heaving his first delivery to the boundary. He and Le Gros dispatched the students’ opening pair to all parts to cement 2nd place for the red and blacks, in keen pursuit of the ever-humble Easts boys.

The prestigious TFC awards for this weekend were received by Henry Walsh and Chris Tait, however both are not without notable mentions. Henry - for annoyingly repeating every word of encouragement uttered by your scribe in the field. CJ - for his never-ending booming voice from 3rd man despite the confronting winds and of course for never ceasing to storm in (much to the detriment of Grace’s sleeping patterns). Check out the scorecard

Written by James Crowley

Taita Premier Reserve 92/5, def. Four Kings University 90/7 

We all love cricket!

It was a cool, grey, Saturday morning down at Fraser Park as the Taita Reserves looked to push for a top four spot in the reserve grade.

Veterans Jason Doyle, and Taita’s nicest guy and best dresser Matthew Pepper-spray were away completing the Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge. This meant that Rahul “The Dr” Jayakar was called up following his great form this season.

With the rain falling all week, the game was to be played on an artificial and with rain expected throughout the day Taita were happy to be bowling first. As we all know, advantage goes to team bowling first when rain effects play.

Pat “tantastic” Smith was once again up to his old tricks and in full swing early on. Meanwhile, Kevin McCombovers new aggressive attitude towards the batsman paid dividends as the pair finished with combined figures of 12 overs, 2 for 10 runs, with one wicket apiece.

A three hour rain delay saw the game shortened to 30 overs aside and Taita came back out to restrict University in the remaining 20 overs. Some tough catches and stumping opportunities were not taken and this allowed the visitors to get to 90 after their 30 overs. Special mention has to go to Shaun Gillespie who followed on with his great form this season taking another 3 wickets. As well as Nik Swain, who’s Danny Morrison impersonations were both well practiced and entertaining.

University came out firing and took a wicket with the first ball bowled. Tim Brown then came in and steadied the ship along with Sam Bourne. The pair put on 56 for the second wicket and proved that honest cricket was the way to go, playing with straight bats. A few lusty blows saw Timothy top score with a quick fire 37 off 31 balls. Unlike Pat Smith, Tim's mid game trips to Subway are having a positive effect on his game.

A wee wobble at the end didn't make much of a difference as Taita got the win inside 21 overs, getting the valuable bonus point.

The Team have a bye this coming weekend and will most likely be putting in some much needed practice for Taita Survivor on December the 14th. Get there! Check out the scorecard

Written by Ben Rammell

The Pentacost is High for Onslow as Taita Crowl to a Significant Victory

Taita was welcomed by Millzy’s arch nemesis Big Blue at Garlic Nairnville on Saturday.  After being sent into bowl, the opposition were doing anything but going on the slow. Taita’s resident gamer, Tony Cliff, executed his throw with deadly accuracy to finish Fletcher with a fantastic run out.  A flurry of wickets followed as Larsen was banished from the kitchen as he was unable to handle Andrew Sturt’s heat. The next Batsman was burnt to a Chrisp and he was ordered out of the kitchen by Chef Sturt not soon after. Onslow ordered something to cool them down and that was exactly what ice cool Khan provided. He steadied the ship with a fast 75 off 83 balls, finally submitting to Sullivan’s offers of a Lusty pizza.  Onslow finished the innings with a steady 202 all out with the bowlers sharing the wickets around.

The stage was set and seats were warm as Onslow’s Old Timers Day was in full swing. Taita had a troubled start losing two wickets in the first over of the innings, sending the old men into raptures. Crowley and Houghton showed true Taita spirit by holding off a fired up Onslow bowling line-up and produced a gutsy 136 run stand. The game looked in control, but as Taita approached the finish line the wheels began to wobble. Fortunately cool heads prevailed as Blomfield put a Tasty blow onto the bank and it looked like Onslow were thin and Chrispy. The game was far from over as Millzy strolled out to the crease with Taita needing three from the final over. Millzy lobbed one over mid-off and the boys scampered the runs to send Taita to second place on the table and leave Onslow lingering around the bottom half. Check out the scorecard

Written by Christopher Tait

"We didn't want to win anyway" - North City Opening Bowler

The Premier Reserve team took on the challenge from North's, for our first home game of the summer. After one win, and one loss nothing less than a bonus point victory against North's would keep us in the hunt for the top 4, due to other results.

Jason decided to keep up our trend/ tactics of batting first, although this did not start in the best way for us. We slowly lost wickets at regular intervals, with three of the top four failing to trouble the scorers. With the exception of last season’s ‘find of the summer’, Sam Bourne, who had a clear ultimatum and gutsed out a very valuable 32 of 87 balls. When he departed we were 83/7, we all thought a ‘Taita collapse‘ was on the way. A quick fire 19 (14 balls) from Kevin McComb set the tone for the game inspiring a partnership between Smithers (39) and Sultan (42), somehow we managed to set North's 209 for the win.

Pat Smith again, came to cricket prepared, so a trip to subway wasn't required at the half. This meant for another disciplined performance from the spearhead. Wickets to Kevin (3) and Pepper (2) were the chief destroyers, with spinners Flake and Shaun taking a wicket a piece.

The return to form with the bat, spurred on one of Taita’s ‘nicest guys’ Matthew Pepper to have an outstanding day in the field. With an early run out, Matthew played a part in all of the first five wickets to fall. Including a miracle caught and bowled.

My highlight of the day was a return to the bowling crease for brother of Sam and Grace, Declan ‘Furbie’ Outtrim. The once famous net destroyer, with first class wickets (Mark Houghton and Henry Walsh) to his name; this was bound to be exciting. This change was greeted with some significant turf kicking from Flake Johnstone at deep cover (very similar to the way Furbie’s elder sibling used to). The over almost started with a bang, a ball that pitched  half way down and surprised the batsman, unfortunately the catch was shelled at square leg.

Smithers knocked over the last Keisha-castle, to secure our ninth wicket (North's last batsman was too sore to come out of the sheds) with the score at 147, we claimed the goal of the bonus point victory. Check out the scorecard

Written by Shaun Gillespie

Other Scorecards:

Grade 1

Grade 3

Legends

Womens 8

Kamos

Screwdrivers

Fireblades

Norths disappointed in City performance

Taita travelled to Linden Park on Saturday to take on North City. Originally, the game was scheduled to take place at Fraser Park. However, the council deemed it was wise to undertake ground Sam Rapira's a week into the season rather than fixing problematic areas (down-spots) over the winter. This meant our number one ground was not fit for use. Other than Blomfield, no one minded though as it meant we weren't required to do cover chores.

Taita elected to bowl and sent Norths in with immediate reward. Strut, fresh from a hunting trip in the Southern Alps, sniffed out more game removing their opening batter in his first over. Blomfield then rubbed salt into the wound, spicing things up even further, by removing the seasoned Pepperall to reduce Norths to 2 for 20.

A partnership of over 100 for the third wicket between the inform Michael Pollard and Neraj 'fishing' Chawla then had Norths well placed at 130 for 2 after 30 overs. Fortunately for Taita, rookie Cole O'Connorarea combined with Dom Post favourite Henry Walsh to remove Pollard for 80.

A Taita-like collapse then occurred with Norths falling over for 194. Strut took 3 wickets, while there were also contributions from Houghton, Sullivan and Cliff. The Vet also deserves a mention for 3 stumpings.

The opening batters set about their work well with Le Gros particularly harsh on anything short and wide. The two Sams rattled up 94 in 16 before Le Gros was out stumped off Anthony Stuart Veitch for 63. Cue, the Taita twitch. Tunnicliffe, Dean and Crowley were all out in quick succession before Walsh took charge getting Taita home with 70 not out off 42 balls.

It was a solid performance all round and pleasing to get the bonus point as the table is very tight with only 3 one day games to go before the competition splits. Click here for the scorecard

Written by Mark Houghton

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Taita More Mega than Upper Hutt, big is not always good.

The Premier Reserves turned up to Barton Oval on a typically overcast drizzly Saturday in Upper Hutt (waaaay different to the previous weeks scorcher). However, there was no delay as the toss was done and Taita put into bat.

Ben Rammell and Taylor Wenlock got Taita off to a great start with Rammell getting to 62 before giving catching practice to cover. After a couple of quick wickets the teams two old heads, Zackery Cliff Curtis and Jay-zen Doyle steadied the ship with a 93 run partnership, before Jay-zen departed for a better than a run a ball 51.

Curtis continued on his innings with help from the rest of the batting order to give Taita a very competitive score of 262-7 from their allotted 50 overs. Curtis was left unbeaten on 97*, running out of balls at the end to bring up three figures.

The bowling display matched the batting with the opening attack of Caramel Smith and Kevin McComb putting Upper Hutt under pressure early. With 3 wickets going to Smith in his opening spell, Upper Hutt were all but out of the contest. A wicket a piece to McComb and Pat Houghton, 2 for Shaun Gillespie plus a run out saw Upper Hutt 9 down before Smith finished off the tail to leave Upper Hutt all out for 104 and finished with well deserved figures of 4-15 off 9.1 overs.

The day finished off in the Upper Hutt clubrooms, including a great yarn with Upper Hutts wicket keeper / stream science teacher, Peter Hicks. Click here for the scorecard

Written by Patrick Smith

In other results:

Grade 1 237/5 beat Collegians 236/AO. Dr Rahul Jayakur 139*, Phil Crothers 4-48. 

Grade 3 175/8 beat University 174/AO. Hayden Moore 42 , Mark Haste 51, Sam Ross 3-38, James Ross 3-31.

Womens 8 104-4 beat Petone 103-5. Margy Bliss 33, Lisa Jones 1-11

Taita Kamos 137-5 lost to Upper Hutt Bestie. Michael Green 54 & 2-16, Daniel Reddish 30

Taita Fireblades 172-6 beat Taita Screwdrivers 149-6. 

Petone Eastbourne left perplexed about playing Petone Taita

Petone were left red faced on Saturday when informed post match they were in fact playing Taita Cricket Club and not having an open net training against Petone team mates. When contacted BJ feeling Crook said "lol, I still don't understand, we read the draw that we were playing Petone Taita, we assumed that was us. So are you telling me we lost to Taita? Who’s Petone Taita then? lol"

Earlier that day Taita were pleased to be back on Fraser Park Alluvial soil. Greeted with the sound of fireworks going off at 10am, fresh gangski paintings on the clubrooms and the sight of mini motorbikes doing mean skids across Fraser Park - life was good.

Taita won the warms ups and the toss electing to bat on the 6a belter. The innings started well with James ‘Bondi Vet’ Crowley purring along with a considered 68. The top four all contributed with the bat, but in the latter stages Taita’s twitch emerged, Taita losing 57 runs for 7 wickets, setting Petone 188.

With the vet barking nothing but motivation, Andrew ‘Alfy’ Sturt was inspirational with the new pearl, putting the first 4 Petone settlers in a boat home. After the onslaught of Alfy, Petone re-established their innings led by Captain Crook, but with all bowlers showing good discipline, Taita took wickets at key stages of the match.

The blossoming ‘Mutcha’ Blomfield took a good catch and snared the wicked of Scott Jones who looked dangerous, sending a couple of lusties over the whitewash.

At 181/7 with 8 more needed for Petone to take the dubya, Mutcha rattled the settlers with jibes about the 1855 Petone earthquake and resulting floods. With the Petone batsman clearly nervous/confused, Taita took 3 wickets in 2 overs, Petone handing the 4 points to their namesake.

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The Premier Reserves played Hutt Districts in the TMP microclimate. The conditions best summarised by Jake ‘Flake’ Johnstone saying he felt “soooo fatigued”, team mates weren’t sure if this was because of the weather or rather the fact Flake had left an all-night Resenes paint party to come to cricket. 

The Taita warriors were in high spirits with their new replica coloured kit and started well when electing to bat. Lush TMP chewing fescue restricted the early run flow, but promising signs were shown with the bat, as 5 batsman made over 19. Taita seeing out their allotted 50 overs, setting Hutt Districts 159 for the win.

Taita lost concentration over the forty minute break, Matt Pepper Spray and Patrick ‘Glugsy’ Smith took the new ball. With Glugsy still chaffed about getting a pork riblet sub rather than his preferred veggie patty and Pepper Spray still haunted by taunts from yester years, the start was far from desirable for captain/teacher Jason ‘Wolf’ Doyle. Aaaaaooooooh made it clear to the pack early he wanted discipline, Patrick Horton heard the howls and produced pinpoint A++ bowling to put the brakes on the scorecard.

Unfortunately, further wayward bowling meant Hutt accumulated easy runs. The curse of the Kennedy’s wasn’t enough to distract Matt who knocked the rest of the runs off for Hutt, who went home with the bacon.

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In other games, Grade 1 kicked off their season with a win. Taita 235 beat Eastbourne 100/AO. Andrew Tait 67, Bede Jordan 5-20, Sam Borne 4-24

The senior women had a loss, but could grab some positives out of their first game against Johnsonville. Taita 56/AO lost to Johnsonville 58/2. Marie Jones 1-10, Carol Graham 13, 1-15.

Squelsh Squelsh

This weekend saw Premier and Premier Reserve take on the Karori unicorns. Unfortunately the weather and underwhelming venues with poor drainage played a major factor, delaying the start to Premier and washing out Premier Reserve. 

Premier Reserves morning consisted of:

• Basketball;
• Moaning about down-spots;
• Moaning about Karori being too keen to play cricket on a Saturday;
• Walking to the Churton Park village to enjoy the ambiance of a local guitarist and get some lunch. Pat Smith commenting that the guitarist was "his new jam"; and
• Driving home at midday.

At Ben Burn Park the premier game was reduced to a 32 over hit-out. Taita and K-town batsman were salivating at the sight of laughably small boundaries, K-town winning the toss and sensibly electing to bat, reaching a grand total of 182. 

Unfortunately on this occasion the Unicorn gods were looking out for the men from the cloudy suburb and guided them to a 133 run win and the mana.

Well done to the boys, always some positives to be taken from the game.

 Check out the scorecard: Taita V Karori

No Ambulance At The Bottom Of The TuniCliff

Saturday had our Prems lined up with a relatively unknown Johnsonville team. After intense discussions between captains, umpires, and the bureaucrats at Cricket Wellington, a delayed 35 over game was set up for the afternoon at Te Whiti Park. 100kph plus winds, short boundaries and a bouncy artificial, meant conditions were conducive to some aggressive batting.

Once Taita’s former resident Yea-Bo, A-Dot  had returned his kit from last season, play was able to get underway with Johnsonville electing to take first Bat. The opening bowlers did a good job at keeping the batters contained with Sturt managing to remove the top two. It was always going to be a challenge for the boys working in to the wind but considering the conditions they did well with special mention going to Tony Cliff and Liam (Deadliest Catch) Sullivan for their tight bowling. Downwind saw the triumphant return or Taita’s secret skux Kevin McComb back from his off season overseas where he “wintered well” and scored the token English Ton. 

Although Johnsonville finally flicked the switch around the 25th over we were confident in our Batters and there was plenty of talk about the downwind end being worth “at least 10 an over”. At the end of the 35 overs they had accumulated a respectable 183-6 and the fielding side was more than happy to retreat from the Chris Gale.  

After an inspirational “nill all boyz” from skipper Mark Houghton, J Dean and Sam De Le Du Ce Twa strode out with a spring in their step, eager at the chance to have a swing downwind. Things weren't to be, sadly for Deano when an enraged A-Dot sought vengeance for his unfair treatment earlier on in the day. Enter Phil Tunicliff! Conditions could not have been more suited to Tony’s batting style, all he had to do was bat himself in and start winding up. As should have been expected he didn't worry about batting himself in, he just started putting balls over the rope. What happened next was something that will probably only ever be witnessed once by those present. Johnsonville elected to bring on a spinner into the wind with Phil on strike. After the first four balls were comfortably dispatched over the fence the possibility of the perfect over was a real chance. The fifth ball sailed away again and everyone held on tight as the 6th ball beat the bat to the signal of wide from the umpire. A second go at it was always going to be too many chanced and the sixth six of the over flew high over the boundary fielders to the delight of the onlookers. 

With classy support from the French-Australian Sam L, Phil kicked on to a superb 98 off 48 sadly just falling short of the ton. A match winning knock that was a pleasure to watch. It was fairly straight forward from here, a solid 42 from Valsh sealed the deal in quick time. Handshakes all round and a great start to the points competition for the Taita boys. As everyone headed off from the ground Pat Houghton was reported to have mumbled something about “heading home for a Jimad Khan of Kieth Urban and Coke with his mate A-Dot”, although no one has heard from him after last seeing him Oosting off in a White Sacked-Out Ute.

Written by Andrew Sturt

Check out the scorecard link below:

Taita V Johnsonville