The Harden Country Club Merrin Cup cricketers cruised to another easy victory against Stockinbingal on Saturday, at home on Tim Doolan Oval.
Nathan Schofield lost the toss and was asked to bowl first. Jarrod Sharman struck early with two quick wickets to have Stock in deep trouble. And from that point on they never really recovered.
Rob Barron opened at the other end with only a handful of runs scored against him from six overs. Mat Schofield come into the attack next with immediate success grabbing four wickets during his spell of four overs. Chris “Buddha” Hocking and Tim Shea both chipped in with a wicket each to wrap the innings up with Stockinbingal managing only 38 runs.
Jason Pollard who is known to have a liking for the boundary, appeared as though he had another appointment to make, taking a very commendable 32 runs off the first two overs with opening partner Nathan Schofield, before skying a ball to be caught out for a quick fire 30. Kai Steele was next to take to the crease but was soon out for a rare Diamond Duck, run out backing up too far at the non strikers end with the bowler getting a hand to a well timed Schofield straight drive.
Rob Barron was next in and he managed to end the game quickly when he scored two boundaries giving Harden the required runs needed.
Nathan Schofield scored freely and remained not out on 20.
Harden took only four overs to secure the victory, finishing 2-60.
A special mention must go to Harden’s representative cricketers, Nathan Schofield, Rob Barron and Jarrod Sharman who all have been a part of Cootamundra’s successful XI fixtures in the VB Country Plate with all players making significant contributions to the two wins and now qualify for the final series later in the year.
Harden take on Wallendbeen under lights at Fisher Park, Cootamundra at 6pm.