Tara Murray
It was the Fernando show as Sunbury United locked in a first up win against Broadford in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup.
Rain seemed to miss Langama Park for the most part on Saturday, with the result the only one not affected by rain.
Broadford in its McIntyre Cup debut made 8-260 from its overs.
The Bees made easy work of the total, making 2-261 off 36.2 overs.
Bees captain Damien Edwards said it was a bit of an unknown start to the season.
“I hadn’t seen any of them and to be honest didn’t know much about them,” he said. “They showed that they could definitely play and they got a hold of us with the bat.
“It was good to see us get a good win. I’m really proud of the boys chasing down a pretty lofty target.”
Broadford started its inning really well and was 2-116. The Bees bowlers were able to slow them down in the middle of the innings.
Edwards said it was still a pretty good total to have to chase down.
Jack Dillon took four wickets for the Bees, while Fabian Fernando took three wickets.
The Bees started well before Edwards fell for 36 off 33 balls.
It bought Fabian Fernando and Upul Fernando together. The pair put on 197 for the second wicket to get the side within sight of victory.
It was finished off not that long afterwards.
Edwards said it was awesome to watch the pair go for it. Fabian finished 101 not out and Upul made 107.
“It was awesome, especially for Upul,” he said. “He hadn’t made a century in the GDCA, it was a nice match for him.
“Fabian is our new coach and it’s awesome for him to get out there and make runs.”
For the Bees, they’ve been able to keep their playing group together in the off season
Edwards said things were slightly different with Fabian replacing Upul as coach.
“He has different values and leadership,” he said. “The old experienced heads are still part of the club and have been there and done it.
“It’s good learning from the older guys for us new leaders. It’s nice to have that change of voice.”
Edwards said being able to keep Upul at the club was a big positive. He will bat at number three this season.
“He’s a class performer,” he said. “Hopefully we’ll see some more opportunities to put in performances like yesterday [Saturday].”
Edwards said they were hoping to take that next step this season after being in the next the last few seasons.
“We’re aiming to be in the mix again,” he said. “It’s going to be tough. Broadford gave us a real test and there will be no easy matches.”
In other matches, Romsey beat Gisborne on Duckworth–Lewis–Stern method, as did Rupertswood against the Sunbury Kangaroos.
Woodend and Macedon’s game ended in a draw after just 5.5 overs were played.
