The Queenstown Primary School Boys years 7 and 8 cricket team distinguished itself at the Otago Region cricket finals in Invercargill last Wednesday.
The four qualifying schools playing at Queen's Park were Queenstown Primary, Balmacewen Intermediate, John McGlashan College and St Peter's, of Gore, out of 20 competing Otago-Southland schools.
Teacher-coach Tom Merrall said the boys had a lot to play for with a place in the national finals at stake.
"Queenstown had a convincing win in the semifinal over Balmacewen. Bowling first, Queenstown held the opposition to 85 off 20 overs.
"Kyle Mace [took ] 2 for 18 and Jonty Climo 2 for 5.
"Chasing the runs Tom Brooks and Cameron Jackson had a fantastic opening stand of 48.
Sam Jones chimed in to see Queenstown home.
"Cameron Jackson [made] 27 not out, Tom Brooks 20, Sam Jones 18 not out."
Mr Merrall said the team then had the daunting task of halting a John McGlashan side "with an entourage similar to the Black Caps in the final".
Queenstown managed to contain the college to 121 off 20 overs, but it was guilty of leaking a few too many extras, he said.
"In the run chase Queenstown was looking comfortable at 54/1 after 10 overs.
"However, a couple of silly run-outs left the middle order and tail with a bit too much to do. The boys ended up 23 runs short.
"The team and I would like to thank all the parents who help transport and support. A fantastic effort to make it into the final," he said.
Principal Lyn Bird said: "We're all very proud of the boys. It's a fantastic result."
