Cricket was the winner when the Benoni Northerns Cricket Club (BNACC) Impala One and Impala Two – the two top-ranked Easterns Cricket Union U10 sides – clashed in a thrilling derby on the Benoni Northerns A field on February 28.
In a match that showcased the BNCC’s depth of talent, Impala Two won the toss and elected to bowl.
They made an immediate impact when Jenson Dias claimed a wicket with the very first ball of the innings.
However, Impala One quickly steadied the ship. Keown Botha led the charge with a retirement score of 54, closely followed by Oliver McGalpine, who also retired on 53. A brisk 22* from Hanru Green helped propel the team to a formidable total of 180/4 in their allotted 25 overs.
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In response, the Impala Two batsmen found it difficult to build momentum against a disciplined Impala Two bowling attack.
Travis Kok anchored the innings with a fighting 20, but the team was eventually restricted to 105 in their 25 overs.
The standout performer of the day was Owen Howard, who earned the man of the match award for his remarkable bowling figures of 2/1 run in 3 overs, which included two maidens.
While Impala One walked away with the victory to solidify their league position, the real winner was the spirit of the game and the club’s flourishing junior department.
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