GOL Gol top-order batsman Wade Hancock knuckled down in energy-sapping heat to post an impressive ton against Merbein in their two-day Sunraysia Cricket Association First Division game at Alcheringa Oval on Saturday.
Hancock hammered 154 not out off 223 balls in leading the home team to 6/369 from their allotted 80 overs at a brisk run rate of 4.61.
In 32-degree heat, with the westerly wind gusting up to 59km/h, he put on 186 for the second wicket with opener Shac Thomas (105) before combining with Jeremy Barnes (62) for a fifth-wicket stand of 105.
Hancock had a delayed start to the SCA season after guiding the Wentworth Roos into the SFNL senior football decider in September.
But he was “seeing them well” on Saturday in putting together a big ton, in which he found the boundary on 19 occasions.
“It was a very good day. It’s not too often that you can string two 100-plus run partnerships together in a day,” Hancock said.
He said he tried to “stay positive and patient” during the impressive knock.
“As I’ve got older and haven’t trained as much, my patience has dropped,” he said.
“But every partner I batted with was helping me along, saying ‘come on, Wade, you’ve got plenty of time’ … because we’re not used to two-day cricket.
“This was my second highest score (for the club). I made 157 a couple of years ago.”
Gol Gol headed into the game unbeaten after six rounds. Fourth-placed Merbein bowled well early to tie down Hancock and Thomas, before the pair found their feet at the crease.
“Shac and I had to battle through a tough early period,” Hancock said.
“But we had some five or 10-over periods when they dropped off a bit and we were able to cash in.
“I’ve only trained twice this year because I’ve been busy with work and other things. But I’m glad I’ve been still able to contribute to the group.”
He gave credit to Alcheringa Oval groundsmen Matt Tiley and Mark Blows for preparing a top-notch wicket.
“They do an amazing job. I know I’m biased, but I rate it as the best wicket in Sunraysia,” Hancock said.
At Nichols Point Reserve, Shannon Bowen continued his rich vein of form as the home team piled on 9/344 off their 80 overs.
The middle order stood tall for the fifth-placed Pointers against third-placed Coomealla Wentworth after the home team was struggling at 3/20.
Bowen hit a stylish 94 off 98 balls, taking his season’s average to 63.4.
Returning star Kaushik Aphale made 80, while Nicholas Blacker finished the innings at 70 not out.
At Mildura Senior College, the home team posted a total of 154 from 60.3 overs against Mildura West.
Josh Coates top-scored with 58 for Mildura Settlers. He was well supported Cameron Kiel, who made 51.
Veteran Shane Driscoll led the way for West’s attack, taking 3/43 off 16.3 overs.
Elsewhere, Nick Giofre top-scored with 47 for second-placed Irymple as the visitors were bowled out for 165 at Brian Weightman Oval No.2.
In reply, Mildura East will resume on day two at 0/28.
