Green Caps take massive step towards securing finals berth

Leschenault’s hopes of playing finals received a massive boost on Saturday at Hay Park after a determined four-wicket win against the Redbacks. Set 154 for victory, the visitors secured victory on the final ball of the 42nd over, with both Brody D’Agostino (23 off 37 balls) and Cody Doran (24 off 70 balls) remaining unbeaten. In contrast, the result has put Hay Park’s chances of a top-four finish under considerable doubt, following Donnybrook’s upset win over Colts at Egan Park. Winning the toss and electing to bat, the Redbacks began the game brightly, with Steven Florance (57 off 106 balls) and Michael Tassone (51 off 84 balls) putting on an impressive 103-run partnership. At 1-103 off 28 overs, the Redbacks looked on course to post an imposing target for the Green Caps — however when Tassone departed a short time later, the home side was unable to rekindle their early brilliance for the remainder of the innings. With Leschenault trio Shehzad Gondal, Matthew Bowles and Jacob Templeton all working brilliantly, the Redbacks lost 5-48 following Tassone’s dismissal. In reply, the Green Caps controlled the contest for lengthy stages, although an exceptional spell from Shaun Bulman (4-9 off 9 overs, three maidens) made sure the run chase wasn’t all smooth sailing.