Bridgetown has secured a spot in the grand final of the Warren Blackwood Cricket Association after defeating Manjimup in a crucial semifinal on March 16, 2024. The match, which took place at the Collier Sporting Complex, saw Bridgetown post a formidable total of 6-233, successfully defending their score against Manjimup, who ended their innings at 9-131.
Bridgetown’s captain, Matt Tassos, won the coin toss for the third consecutive week and opted to bat first. The decision proved to be pivotal as the team aimed to bounce back from two previous low-scoring performances. Openers Josh Power and Jake Dickeson approached the innings with patience, gradually building a solid foundation against a disciplined Manjimup bowling attack.
Dickeson played a crucial role, contributing a well-crafted 47 runs before departing in the 32nd over, with the team score at 136. Power continued to captivate the audience with his aggressive batting style, ultimately falling just short of a century with a total of 95 runs. Thomas Clynch capitalized on the strong start, accelerating the scoring rate late in the innings and helping Bridgetown reach a daunting total.
Facing a challenging target, Manjimup needed a strong beginning, but early breakthroughs from Bridgetown’s bowlers proved decisive. Mitch Clothier, along with Dickeson and Ben Golding, dismantled the Manjimup batting order, leaving them struggling at 4-19 by the ninth over.
Despite the efforts of Manjimup stalwarts Ben Lagana and Luke Murphy, who combined for a 49-run partnership, the innings faltered after Lagana was dismissed just before the drinks break. Murphy managed to score a determined 46 runs, while Cameron Harris added an impressive 32 not out. Ultimately, Manjimup finished their innings with a total of 131 runs.
Both Clothier and Dickeson claimed three wickets each, while Golding contributed with two. This result concluded a commendable season for Manjimup, who finished in third place.
Looking ahead, Bridgetown will face Forestry in the grand final, scheduled for 12:00 on March 23, 2024. This rematch provides an opportunity for Bridgetown to reverse last year’s disappointing outcome.
The semifinal was held during the important Think Mental Health Round, an initiative aimed at promoting connection and awareness regarding mental health. Players from both teams donned green attire as a symbol of solidarity, reinforcing the event’s emphasis on community support and well-being through cricket. This initiative encourages clubs to unite through the sport, emphasizing the significance of mental health discussions both on and off the field.
