Waraba Cricket Club marks Anzac Day with memorable T20 Clash

By Chase Christensen  

Waraba Cricket Club wrapped up its summer season in a memorable style, hosting a special Anzac Day T20 match that brought together past and present players for a day that balanced competition with community spirit.  

The match was organised to recognise the significance of Anzac Day, while also marking the shift into the winter sporting season. Veterans XI took on Waraba XI and what unfolded was a lively contest played in great spirit.  

After winning the toss, the Veterans chose to bat first and wasted no time getting on the front foot. Openers Gareth Cotter and Blake Litchfield set the tone early, scoring freely and putting pressure on the Waraba bowlers from the outset. Their positive approach gave the innings early momentum before Litchfield was dismissed, bringing Dave McKay to the crease. McKay’s time in the middle was brief, bowled by Scott Walker soon after arriving.  

Cotter continued to anchor the innings, joined by Jake McGregor, who added energy with an aggressive knock. McGregor looked in excellent touch, striking the ball cleanly on his way to 25 before being dismissed by a standout piece of fielding from Zane Ridgway, whose catch in the outfield was one of the highlights of the day.  

Josh Falls chipped in with a handy 18, helping to keep the scoreboard moving, before Kyle ‘Squish’ Potter added late runs to give the innings a strong finish. Potter batted with confidence and composure, combining well with Lee, who retired not out on 30. Together they guided the Veterans to a competitive total of 163.  

Chasing 164, Waraba XI made their intentions clear from the first over. ‘Browny’ and Mitch Smith got the innings off to a flying start, racing to 40 without loss in just four overs. Smith retired unbeaten on 30, leaving the side well placed in the early stages of the run chase.  

The Veterans fought back through Dave McKay, who claimed two quick wickets to shift the momentum and apply pressure to the middle order. For a period, the game hung in the balance, with both sides trading moments of control.  

Clint and Harry then steadied things for Waraba, building a partnership that kept the required run rate within reach. Both batsmen scored freely, ensuring the chase remained on track despite the earlier setbacks.  

The match tightened again late in the innings. Harry was dismissed by Josh Falls, who was playing his first game, while Zane ‘the Fridge’ Ridgway was stumped shortly after. At 7 for 149 in the 18th over, Waraba still needed 15 runs and the result was far from certain.  

With the pressure on, Pushy stepped up and delivered when it mattered most. In a decisive burst, he struck two towering sixes along with a boundary, sealing a thrilling victory for Waraba XI and securing the inaugural Anzac Day Cup.  

Individual performances were recognised after the match, with the Anzac Day Medal awarded to Kyle ‘Squish’ Potter. Chosen by the umpires and captains, Potter was acknowledged for his strong all-round effort, contributing key wickets and valuable runs with the bat.  

While the result provided plenty of excitement, the day was more than just cricket. It highlighted the strength of the Waraba Cricket Club community and the connection between generations of players. The club thanked everyone who took part during the summer season and extended its best wishes to those moving into winter competitions.  

There was also a strong show of appreciation for the Veterans who returned for the match. With the success of the day clear to see, Waraba Cricket Club is hopeful the Anzac Day fixture will become a regular event on the calendar in years to come.