By LIAM TWOMEY
KEALBA Green Gully got its premiership defence off to the best possible start with a crushing win over Buckley Park in the North West Metropolitan Cricket Association on Saturday.
After winning the toss and batting, Buckley Park looked to be cruising during the early stages of its innings, racing to 1/66.
However, when Tristan Krizanic struck to give Kealba its second wicket, the momentum of the match changed.
Buckley Park lost its remaining eight wickets for just 51 runs to be bowled out for 117 in the 38th over.
Divesh Kumar was outstanding for Kealba with the ball, ripping through the batting line up to finish with five wickets.
He was well supported by Evan Long and Krizanic, who both picked up two wickets.
Despite losing an early wicket in the run chase, there was no stopping Kealba, which has become accustomed to chasing down small totals in recent years.
Long returned to the middle to cause more havoc for Buckley Park, this time with the bat in hand.
The talented all rounder combined for a 79-run partnership with opening batsman Todd Newman to help set up the win.
Despite losing three late wickets, the Cougars brought up the win in the 30th over.
Newman went on to top score for the innings with a well compiled 49 runs.
The good news didn’t stop there for Kealba, with the club’s second XI holding on for a 12-run win in the Vic Kyte Shield.
This week the Cougars will take on Gladstone Park.
