THE 2013/14 Season for the Oxley Thunder over-35s representative cricket team has ended one game short of a grand final appearance for a second successive year.
Although finishing equal second following two wins, two losses, a forfeit and a wash-out, the Port Macquarie-based Thunder were edged out on percentages following the result of their final game against Gloucester – played in stifling conditions in the upper Hunter.
During the season, 19 players were used in total with only six members of the squad involved in all four matches, and only one home game at Oxley Oval.
Leading the way with the bat were Jamie Hall with 144 runs (highest score of 68), Peter Morris with 99 (62), Warren Preston 67 (32) and Daniel Duckworth with 55 runs (with a top score of 46). In the bowling department Nik James (best bowling of 2/9) and Peter Morris (2/25) both finished with four wickets apiece at the end of the tournament with Sean Staniforth (2/19), Rob Mooney (2/19) and Daniel Duckworth (1/1) all claiming three scalps.
In the field Rob Whyte and Paul Stait led the way both claiming two catches.
Team manager Nik James said there were many highlights during the Thunder’s season.
“Although the opening batsmen fired, the middle order provided little support and the tail failed to wag to set up a competitive total in a couple of vital matches,” he said.
“Most players were also given an opportunity to bowl but the wickets just didn’t fall often enough to ensure a place in the decider.”
Having been involved in rep cricket for a number of years and after two seasons leading the squad, captain Rod Price has stepped down and his efforts both on and off the field should be acknowledged.
It was also a breakthrough year for the side with a new name (formerly known as the Golden Oldies) and becoming the first Hastings senior rep team to have acquired a sponsor. The Thunder would like to sincerely thank Harry and Vicki Brady from Cafe Buzz for their support during the first year of a three-year arrangement.
Nik James added that he’d like to see some fresh blood in the ranks next season to combine with a few of the seasoned players and have a real crack at qualifying and winning the grand final.
“There is plenty of great talent over the age of 35 from HRDCA teams on the eastern side of the highway to form a very competitive unit but not everyone can commit themselves to playing a few Sundays over summer,” he said.
“The Oxley Thunder would like to wish the defending premiers and competition favourites the Wauchope-based Oxley Cutters and their opposition from Gloucester all the best in the decider to be played at Andrews Park on Sunday February 9 in what is a replay of last year’s final.”
