Captain of the first team at Somerset West Cricket Club (SWCC) Larry Morkel hit an unbeaten century (104*) to lead his team to yet another victory in a First Division B encounter against Bonteheuwel Cricket Club at the Alan Olsen oval in Radloff Park at the weekend.
But he was not the only star of the show as SWCC bowlers Mathew Dickson (4-17) and Robbie Uys (5-41) both came to the party to ensure a memorable win for the home team.
SWCC won the toss and opted to bowl first in what seemed liked perfect conditions under clear skies and minimal winds. Bonteheuwel CC lost an early wicket thanks to good bowling from Uys, but afterwards got stuck into the SWCC bowlers. Varun Kalidindi eventually made the breakthrough in the 27th over, and afterwards Dickson and Uys bowled well at the back end of the innings, claiming nine wickets between them. Bonteuwel ended their innings on 177/10.
At the change of innings, SWCC lost André Gerber in the third over of their chase, but Morkel and Tim Boyd took full control of the game, as they shared a 77-run partnership before Boyd lost his wicket. Bradley Jakes joined Morkel and together they put on an 87-run partnership to close out the game for SWCC, claiming a bonus-point win in the process.
SWCC will host St Augustine’s in their next First Division B fixture scheduled for Saturday (18 November).
In the First Division A league, Hottentots-Holland Cricket Club (HHCC) slumped to defeat on the road when they travelled to face Strandfontein CC.
Strandfontein won the toss and batted first, and despite some tight bowling managed to set a score of 198-8 in their 50 overs. Shameel Abels was in fine form with ball in hand as he took 5/43.
In response, HHCC struggled in their chase and lost wickets at regular intervals. The local lads were eventually bowled out for 145. Abdul Aziz Temoor (43*) and Yaasien Railoun (42) contributed with bat in hand.
This weekend sees HHCC host Tygerberg at the Navy Sports Ground.
In First Division D, Helderberg Cricket Club (HCC) overcame Peninsula CC to clinch consecutive wins. Asked to bowl first, HCC bowlers Dexter Hindley (3-22), Sharick Swarts (3-46) and Gary-Jon Sylvester (2-22) bowled PCC out for 160.
In response, HCC were steady and consistent in their run-chase despite losing some early wickets.
Sylvester (56) led the charge and some important contributions by Damian Jooste (31) and Chalynn Hess (23) led HCC to victory as they reaching the total in 44 overs.
HCC will host Sherwood-Manenberg CC at Helderzicht Sports Grounds this Saturday.
