Article written & supplied by: Mick Shepperd.
On Sunday 13th February, Adelaide University and Hills Fleurieu Fins faced off in the Over 60's SAVCA Grand Final playing for the Tanner Shield. The game was played at the spectacular Campbelltown Oval, home of the East Torrens District Cricket Club.
2022 SAVCA Tanner Shield Champions
University started as favourites as they finished on top of the ladder and were reigning premiers. Hills Fleurieu Fins charged into the big dance having won a must-win game in the last round. They knew they had what it takes to succeed as they had played in the previous 8 Grand Finals in the Over 60's age group.
Veterans Cricket is the fastest-growing category in Australian cricket. With a nail-biting, competitive game like this one, it's easy to see why past players are pulling the whites on and getting back on the field.
Over 60's playing conditions see batters retire at 35, and Alan Favell led the charge for Uni scoring an unbeaten 40 from 56 balls faced, bringing up his retirement score with a 6, maximizing his contribution. Ray Wilson also retired on a well-made 35 from 57 balls. The pick of the bowlers for the Fins was Captain Rob "Bear" Colwell, who opened the bowling and completed his spell of 7 overs for a miserly three runs, 4 of those overs being maidens! Dave Wenham took 2/28 just at the right time to keep the Uni total to 138 from their 40 Overs.
Tim Pellen at full tilt
Leading from the front, Uni captain Tim Pellen opened the bowling, and he bowled an expert spell with the figures 1/15 from 7 overs. Uni had the measure of the Fins for the early part of the run chase, and for a long time, it looked as if University would hold on for the victory.
Player of the Match, David Smith (37 off 57 balls) and Bob McCrackan (32 off 58 balls) had other ideas. They guided the balls into gaps and chased down the victory target in the 37th over
An exciting finish kept the enthusiastic crowd on edge until the last ball was bowled! The spirit of cricket is alive and well in the SA Veterans Cricket Association. Both teams presented each other an award for the player that instilled the spirit of the game, which is a refreshing initiative.
L-R Alan Favell, David Smith & "Bear" Colwell
SAVCA would like to congratulate the Hills Fleurieu Fins on the victory, while also acknowledging Adelaide Unversity's efforts throughout the season.
A massive thanks to all the sponsors who, without their support, SAVCA would not have been able to produce the live stream coverage, which included the following:
Blackwoods, Explorer Caravans, S&W Seed Company Australia, Nelson Teamwear, Astute Finance, Spirit of Cricket, Hodgson Print, and JK Ramage Builders.
Finally, SAVCA would also like to thank the South Australian Cricket Association for their continued commitment to veterans cricket in South Australia.
Photos supplied by: Mark Willoughby Photography.
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