UPDATE: In a stunning display of cricket, Tallangatta’s Isaac Willett scored an impressive 104 runs in a six-wicket victory over North Albury on July 15, 2023. Willett’s performance was pivotal in chasing down the premiers’ total of 195 runs with over 10 overs remaining in the Cricket Albury-Wodonga Provincial match.
The left-hand opening batsman’s unbeaten century came off just 96 balls, showcasing his explosive batting style with four towering sixes. “With the white-ball format, opposition teams are only allowed two outside the circle in the first 10 overs, so it gives you a license to chance your arm,” Willett explained after the match.
Currently in career-best form, Willett has amassed 377 runs at an average of 94 in just five rounds of play this season, including two centuries. This follows a remarkable season where he scored over 1,000 runs while playing at Romiley, south of Manchester.
“I know my game well now. There’s more planning involved,” Willett added, reflecting on his evolution as a player. His performance stands out particularly given the team’s reshuffle, with only two players from last season’s premiership—Jake Burge and captain Ash Borella—remaining in the lineup.
Burge contributed significantly to the game, scoring 66 not out and forming a crucial 70-run partnership with veteran Brendan Simmons, who added 41 runs. North Albury’s efforts fell short despite Burge’s patience at the crease, as he faced 114 deliveries.
In bowling highlights, Beau Nicklin claimed 3 wickets for 44 runs, while English debutant Mitchell Killeen impressed with figures of 1 for 25 in his eight overs. Willett noted, “He has really good skills and makes the batter play and miss a lot,” praising Killeen’s technique as he adapts to the local game.
Meanwhile, in a gripping contest, Wodonga all-rounder Jack Craig overcame a debilitating migraine to deliver a match-winning performance against East Albury, scoring 57 runs off 73 balls, alongside captain Jack Gilbee, who struck 64 runs from 44 balls. The duo guided Wodonga to victory, finishing the chase of 181 runs with 5.5 overs to spare.
Earlier, East Albury opener Alex Hinkley had a solid outing with 51 runs, positioning himself second on the run-scorers list with 265 runs at an average of 53. Craig also excelled with the ball, taking 3 wickets for 24 runs in a standout bowling performance.
In another match, Corowa secured their third consecutive win, decisively defeating New City by 164 runs. Key contributions came from Ben Fulford, who scored 78 runs, and Cal Langlands with 39 runs, helping Corowa post a total of 238 runs. New City struggled, finishing at just 74 runs, with Blake Elliott taking 3 wickets for 13 runs.
As Willett continues to dominate the cricket scene, fans eagerly await his next performance. The excitement around his recent form and the competitive spirit in the league is palpable, making every upcoming match a must-watch event for cricket enthusiasts.
