BDCAW 2023: Hollie Perkin’s knock lifts Green Caps, Harvey-Benger win inaugural women’s match

Dalyellup women’s team players might not have seen Leschenault’s Hollie Perkin in action prior to Sunday’s first grade clash at Dalyellup College — however by the end it, they were well and truly up to speed with her brilliance. Perkin, 19, who has substantial UK county cricket experience, blasted 97 off 70 balls, as the Green Caps easily defeated the hosts by 121 runs. Winning the toss and electing to bat, Leschenault benefited from an incredible 123-run partnership between Perkin and Bec Campbell for the third wicket. Even with a minor collapse towards the back of their innings, the Green Caps amassed 7-177 off their 30 overs, which appeared to be an opposing target for the home side to run down under gloomy skies. With a few spots of rain falling periodically, the intensity increased, with Leschenault’s bowlers dismissing Dalyellup for 56 inside 20 overs. At Forrest Park, the Colts defeated Marist by seven wickets, after being set 46 for victory. The Colts, who have become a genuine first grade force in recent seasons, took advantage of the conditions, with Addison Hall (3-9 off four overs, one maiden) claiming the critical scalps of Gabrielle House and Ebony Bilcich. Although they were defending a minimal total, all Marist players remained upbeat and accountable in the field, with House leading the charge for the Blues. With two wickets in as many deliveries to begin her third over, House had the Blues faithful believing they could trigger a batting collapse, such was the apparent momentum shift at the time. Fortunately for the visitors, sensible batting from Lucy Mullens (16 not out) and Matilda Thomas (seven not out) ensured they finished with a victory. In second grade, Harvey-Benger defeated Burekup by nine wickets at the Harvey Recreation Ground, in the club’s inaugural BDCA T20 women’s fixture. Set 91 for victory, the home side recovered from Laura Cheney’s early dismissal to knock off the target with 11 overs to spare. SWFL followers will notice several present and past Harvey Bulls women’s players included in Harvey-Benger’s team this year — including Bulls legend Larissa Versaci, ace utility Trinity Brown, reliable forward Megan Minton and ruck Harmony Staszewski-Hose.