On a day where rain threatened to dampen their spirits, the Crabs emerged victorious in the only match dry enough to play, beating the Kaitangata Kings by six wickets. This win not only secured their position but also allowed them to retain the coveted Burt Pringle Trophy.
In a match that showcased their strategic acumen, Milton asked the visiting Kaitangata Kings to bat first. The decision proved to be a masterstroke, as the Kings were bowled out for a mere 91 runs, using just over half of their allotted overs.
The Crabs' bowling attack was spearheaded by the versatile all-rounder Corey Bradley, fresh off an unbeaten half-century the previous weekend. Bradley's prowess was undeniable as he dismantled the opposition with figures of five for 19 from his eight overs.
His dominance with the ball, complemented by a quality catch and a superb run-out, set the tone for Milton's defence.
Kai opener Orry Young and middle-order maestro Kane Benington managed to top score for the visitors with 20 runs each, but their efforts were in vain against Milton's relentless bowling. Strike bowler Dan Samson also played a crucial role, taking key wickets early on and allowing Bradley to capitalise on the pressure.
Milton's response to the modest target was not without its challenges. Early setbacks saw both openers dismissed with just nine runs on the board.
However, a match-winning partnership between Bradley Frost and Dylan Greer steadied the ship. Frost, contributing 36 runs, and Greer, adding 23, broke the back of the run chase, setting up a comfortable win.
Despite their dismissals in quick succession, the experienced heads of Braden Adams and skipper Ben Cameron ensured Milton reached the target in the 19th over. Kai's bowling effort saw wickets shared around, with young Archie Smith taking the key wicket of Greer and returning figures of one for eight off his couple of overs.
Nonetheless, it was Milton's day as they displayed the confidence and composure necessary to secure victory.
Milton's triumph in this match is a continuation of their success in the T20 competition. Their winning streak has solidified their reputation, and they now face the challenge of defending their position with a target on their back.
After the Christmas break, Milton will travel to Clutha in an effort to defend the Cameron Cup, a fixture that promises to test their mettle. The Kaitangata Kings, on the other hand, will be looking to regroup after two losses in the 40 over competition.
Despite their setbacks, the Kings understand that this format is a marathon, not a sprint, and they will have the opportunity to bounce back when they host Owaka in January.
The other two matches, Clutha v Valley and Owaka v Waihola will be rescheduled in the new year, with Waitangi weekend already being looked at.
By Francis Parker
