From 3 to 5 October the annual Varsity cricket T20 series took place. With a tough opening game, two phenomenal displays, and a bitter defeat in the semi-finals, UP bowed out of the tournament. Yet, even with UP not being able to retain their title, it was still a tournament that they could walk away from with their heads held high.
UP started the tournament by facing a classic rival in the form of NWU. A match that saw both sides bring their splendid batting to the forefront. NWU was the first to bat and scored 186 runs for four wickets. In the second innings UP knew that they had to bring their A-game if they were to succeed. Unfortunately, after a valiant effort and some last-minute heroics from James Ritchie, UP lost the opening game by 12 runs. The reigning champions knew they had to dig deep to ensure they would be in the final.
In their game against UCT they reminded everyone at the tournament of their talents. After a glorious 199 runs for six wickets, they all but secured their victory against the Capetonians. Later, they put their bowlers to work and limited Madibaz to 126 runs for six wickets. In the next innings UP chased the score with ease and secured themselves a place in the semi-finals against Maties, who topped their pool.
What followed in the semi-final was a piece of bowling wizardry from Maties’ very own Benjamin Ward. The young starlet thrashed UP’s hopes of going to the final by taking four wickets in a single over, including a hat-trick. In the end UP was bowled out for 76 runs. Maties not only secured victory in the following innings but also took home the trophy by successfully besting NWU in a thrilling final.
Overall, the tournament gave UP a lot to think about when it comes to the up-and-coming northern league. However, what the two games against UCT and Madibaz showed is that UP has the talent and skills. That, combined with their grit against NWU and their never-say-die attitude against Maties, is surely enough to make anyone look towards the coming league games with optimism.
Photos: Katharine O’Ehley
