By Trevor Jackson
WEST GAMBIER 10/156 V MIL LEL 7/39
DAY one in Round 9 of Barber Shield cricket threw up an interesting scenario for both West Gambier and Mil Lel.
After winning the toss, Mil Lel chose to bowl, which appeared to be a good decision.
The Roos looked settled at the crease early, but a few wickets fell and suddenly they were on the back foot.
Jack Miller and Thomas Smith ripped through the West lineup, with five and four wickets respectively.
Jake Blackwell resisted the pressure to record a handy half-century (58) for the
Roos, but few others had any real effect on the contest.
West struggled along to 156 runs in the 45th over and Mil Lel looked in a strong position.
However, with plenty of overs to play before stumps, West then went on the attack with the ball in hand.
It turned out to be a sad state of affairs, as wickets began to tumble and runs did not flow.
Only Nick Walters, unbeaten on 11, plus Craig Hicks down the order reached double figures, with three ducks among the personal tallies.
When stumps was called Mil Lel had slumped to 7/39 and was in real trouble.
Only 32 overs had been bowled, leaving plenty of time and balls for the Roos to finish the Mil Lel innings in style.
Bray Stephenson and Sujith Nikethana claimed two wickets each and will look to wrap up the innings early on day two for a first-innings victory.
