Under-16 Side Wins Bradman Cup Title

Newcastle Herald

Friday January 9, 2009

By JOSH LEESON

NEWCASTLE'S under-16 representative cricket team recaptured the Bradman Cup yesterday after a four-year drought.

The best under-16 teams from Country NSW converged on Coffs Harbour over the past four days, and the Newcastle boys dominated from start to finish to go through the tournament undefeated.

Along the way Newcastle beat arch rivals Central Coast, Illawarra and Riverina to set up a final against North Coast.

North Coast batted first and made 162 in the 50-over clash thanks to some economical bowling from Jarrad Hayes (3-16 off 10 overs).

Newcastle made light work of the run chase, scoring 3-163 in 43 overs. Dylan Hunter top-scored with an unbeaten 61.

Batting has been a strength of the Newcastle side all week.

Five batsmen skipper Luke Merchant, Josh Gill, Tom Frith, Jeff Gunninan and Hunter scored half-centuries during tournament.

The Bradman Cup victory means Newcastle coach Mark Frith can start preparing his side to tackle the winners of the AW Green Shield, Sydney's under-16 competition.

The match will be played on February 15 at a venue to be confirmed.

© 2009 Newcastle Herald

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