GRAAFF-REINET NEWS — On February 25, the United Cricket Club recorded a 25-run victory against Steytlerville Cricket Club, in a final played at the Fred Hufkie Oval.

United have won this competition for the past eight years!

United won the toss and opted to bat, but after six overs, both openers were back in the hut for a miserly 20 runs.

This brought the league's leading run-scorer, Eddorique Gouws and United's captain, Cole Adams together. The duo put on a record-breaking 3rd-wicket stand of 155 runs, before Adams (129 not out; 20 fours) had to retire with a calf strain. Gouws scored 57 (5 fours), before United lost two wickets in two deliveries. Vini-Jon Jack then came to the crease and smashed 48 runs off 20 balls (1x6, 6x 4) to see United score a formidable 277 in their allotted 45 overs.

The opening batsman for Steytlerville, Angelo Erasmus returned to the field of play and scored 21 runs, after being rushed to hospital to receive stitches, when a ball struck him in the face.

Steylerville put up a brave fight, with Darius de Jager scoring 84 (2 x 6, 5 x 4), to see The visitors fall short by a mere 25 runs. De Jager was ably assisted by Envor Daniels, who contributed 35 runs.

Luther Rogers then entered the fray for United and claimed five wickets for 37 runs, to put an end to Steytlerville's run chase.

The United Cricket Club would like to thank Goldrush Casino, as their main sponsors; and their loyal supporters.

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