Tara Murray
A premiership has capped off an already successful season for Werribee Cricket Club’s women’s sides.
Fielding women’s sides for the first time, the club didn’t know how it would go.
The club not only had enough numbers for one side, but they managed to get up two sides.
Both sides played in North West Metropolitan Cricket Association grand finals on Sunday.
The division 3 side was able to come away with the premiership, while the division 5 side fell just short.
Tigers women’s coach Ivo Havard said the season had exceeded all expectations.
“We thought we would only get up one side,” he said.
“It has been a good journey and there’s been terrific commitment from the 22 odd players in the first year.
“It’s terrific for the club and the City of Wyndham that we have women’s sides up and running.
“They’ve certainly enjoyed their cricket.”
Harvard said for the club to play off in two grand finals was a massive achievement. He said the whole club was proud of their efforts.
The division 3 team defeated Haig Fawkner-East Coburg.
The Tigers made 5-123 after being sent in. Danielle Hills top scored with 24.
“We batted pretty well and kept the score ticking over,” Havard said. “We then kept some really good bowlers to the end and didn’t give away too many extras.
“Dani and Ananya Mahajan did really well taking two wickets each. Mahajan, who is only 12 in April took her 100th career wicket.
“She’s on the rise and we’re looking forward to seeing her at a higher level.”
The division 5 lost to Moonee Valley.
Moonee Valley made 4-115 from its 20 overs. The Tigers fell just short, finishing 1-08
Harvard said there wasn’t much between the two teams, with the difference in extras between the difference between the two sides.
While Harvard coached the sides, he said there was plenty of leadership from the playing group.
“Ruby Ruby was the motivator behind getting the women’s team up,” he said. “ She has done a fantastic job in assisting me put the two teams together.
“Kelly Patrick-Field was the captain of the division 3 side and Sharon DSilva was the captain of the division 5.
“Their leadership really assisted the team and club.”
Havard highlighted the role of Michelle Rowlands who is deaf. She will play in the Victorian Deaf team later this year.
Harvard said this season was only the start of what the club was looking to do with their women’s program.
He said with the support of the club they were hoping it would only get bigger and bigger.
“We had a lot of younger girls and first time players and they all achieved a lot in the first season.
“We have an alliance with the Werribee Junior Cricket Club. We have the best girls program in the region and there’s now a pathway for female cricket.
“We’ll aim to play at higher levels in years to come.”
