The U16s finals campaign came to a halt on Friday night, going down to Elwood by 34 runs. In the end, the target of 201 was just too big and Elwood were that little bit better in key moments.

A few standout performances from the team’s senior players, Pranay Sood 3/35, Aaron Swann 2/41 with the ball and 46 with the bat and, as have come to expect from the captain in finals, Kane Gleeson 3 stumpings, 1 catch, 1 runout behind the stumps and retiring on 50* with the bat to give his side every opportunity to chase late. Mitch Langworthy, one of our underage players performed really strongly with the bat, 18 off 21 later in the innings! We look forward to watching your cricket grow in the next few seasons Mitchy!

To the retiring top age boys and their families (James Lee, Will Schinck, Pranay Sood, Arjun Mehta, Jake D’Rozario, Aaron Swann, Kane Gleeson), the legacy to the younger boys and their families is something far greater than winning. It’s been a while since you’ve had a team with so many new faces but from the very first pre-season session you brought your energy and experience and created a sense of belonging for the younger boys. We couldn’t be prouder of you!

To the younger boys and their families (Dean Farrington, Ned Cannington, Mitch Langworthy, Devan De Silva, Josh Pyman, Lewis Richardson), it’s a big step up into U16s! Between them, the older boys have played 849 matches vs your 385! Take what you have learnt and put your own stamp on it! Play as much senior cricket as you can, as that’s where the opportunity to really learn and improve lies. We can’t wait to see what you do on and off the field in the next few years, we’ve thoroughly enjoyed your company and hope you truly felt part of the Uniting family this season.

A special note to the Coach, George McCormick and those that came before you, Craig Short, Mark D’Rozario, Dave Swann and the indefatigable James Bruce! Whilst your cricketing experience and teaching has been fantastic, it’s the the mentoring of the boys into young men and good club people that’s stood out!

H xx