By Lance Jenkinson
Druids’ captain Leigh Wilson has lauded the mental strength of his players during the first weekend of their four-day Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 1 west grand final against Airport West-St Christophers.
There were times during the first two days when the West Saints could have assumed full control of the match at Shorten Reserve, only for Druids to find a wicket at a crucial stage or make a big play in the field.
The West Saints wound up all out for 253 in 117 overs – a competitive total, but not one that is out of Druids reach.
“The bowlers did a really good job,” Wilson said. “It could’ve got out of hand a couple of times there, but to their credit they reeled it in.”
New ball operators Wilson and Sam Thurston set the tone for Druids.
Photo Gallery: Druids vs Airport West-St Christophers
Wilson finished with team-best figures of 3-41 off 18 overs, while Thurston snared 3-80 off 37. Happy to deflect the praise, Wilson was glowing in his assessment of Thurston.
“He’s a big boy, so to chug through 25 overs yesterday and another 12 today, it’s a big effort,” Wilson said.
Indi Gallage was the chief irritant for Druids. The veteran medium pacer bowled 16 overs at a tick over a run an over to finish with 2-18.
Spinner Duminda Dasanayaka was the other bowler to build pressure on the West Saints. He took 1-32 off 21 overs.
The sides entered day two level-pegging, but Druids probably had their noses in front after stumps. Druids are 1-109 off 43 overs, requiring a further 144 for the first-innings advantage.
“To go in one down, we’re effectively chasing 145 with nine wickets in hand,” Wilson said.
“You’re pretty confident that if you bat well, you should be able to get those runs.”
Wilson showed his all-round qualities with 53 not out. He formed a 103-run first wicket partnership with Steve Nicholson, who was out for 50.
Wilson and James Waters will be at the crease when play resumes on Saturday.
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