BDCA 2023: Masterclass from proven stalwarts generates famous Collie victory

On a day where the heat in the middle of the ground seemed to leave many wilting, Collie opener Greg Tomasini appeared to relish it.

Tomasini blasted 104 off 120 balls as the visitors sprung a major surprise at the Eaton Sports Ground on Saturday, defeating the red-hot Bobtails by 77.

The home side entered the game with plenty of star power, with Jacob Wintle, Liam Renton and Arron Quartermaine all cherry ripe for big games.

However, as much as the Bobtails’ bowling unit toiled under the unforgiving sun, Tomasini and company refused to budge as the visitors slowly but surely set the Bobtails a challenging 210 for victory.

In reply, Eaton were dismissed for a disappointing 132, losing 6-30 off their final 11 overs at the crease.

Aside from fierce determination from James Hillery, who refused to give an inch, there were few other crumbs of comfort for the Bobtails’ faithful on Saturday afternoon.

Blair Malatesta (4-26 off nine overs) was the pick of Collie’s bowlers, while Matt Tanner was also extremely economical during the early stages of his spell.