Brighton batsman Ben Clements issued a show-me-what-you’ve-got edict to the much-vaunted Werribee top order at Brighton Beach Oval on Saturday.
Clements laid down the challenge to the Tigers by delivering a mesmerising 151 from 202 balls in the home side’s imposing total of 9-283 in the sub-district game.
Tigers captain-coach Mitch Johnstone is confident his side has enough batting firepower to succeed in the daunting run chase.
“It is going to take some chasing obviously but with the way we’re batting, we think we’re every chance,” he said.
“We know we’ve got players who are the same calibre of Clements – we’ve got three really good players and some good support acts.
“It’s a ground that’s really hard to defend on and we’re just hoping those guys can get up and running next week.”
After Brighton was in trouble on 4-25, Clements stepped up to produce an innings to remember for the bottom-of-the-ladder side. He slammed on 17 fours and a six in a jaw-dropping knock that even his opposition could not help but applaud.
“It was probably the best innings I’ve seen in subbies cricket,” Johnstone said. “It was a class above – we couldn’t really restrain him and he ended up getting away from us.”
“His ability to manoeuvre the ball and get off strike and continue to keep the board ticking over was very impressive.”
The day started well for Werribee with Brighton on the ropes early.
New recruit Brad Robertson was on song with the removal of both openers on his way to 4-51 off 22 overs.
But Robertson’s fortunes turned like those of his side as he succumbed to a hamstring strain. He was later cleared of any serious damage.
“Brad’s control was exceptional and he was a constant threat,” Johnstone said.
“It was a massive step in the right direction for him … not enough support at the other end for him, which was a bit disappointing.”
Once Clements got going, Werribee’s afternoon took a turn for the worse.
Clements featured in big partnerships with Matthew Jones and Josh Waldron to have the Tigers chasing the ball all over.
Clements was finally removed by Werribee spinner Tim O’Brien, who finished with an expensive 3-76 off 16 overs.
Johnstone, the Tigers’ other spinner, took his lumps, too, with 0-79 off 19.
“Our bowlers were good early and probably a little underwhelming as the day progressed,” Johnstone said.
“We’ve got to take responsibility for that and look to bounce back.”
It will not be easy for the Werribee batsmen on Saturday – they have to face Brighton’s star English import, Chris Rushworth.
Rushworth has taken 278 wickets at 23 at first-class level for Durham in county cricket.
“His record speaks for itself,” Johnstone said. “He dominated county cricket last year. It’s a good challenge for our group.”
