NURSERY Ridge newcomer Liam Heath still can’t quite believe he is now a century maker.
The 21-year-old hadn’t played cricket for almost three years, and his comeback match in October saw him score a third-ball duck against Ouyen Rams in the Red Cliffs Cricket Association.
When he entered at No.7 on Saturday with Ridge in trouble at 5/73 against Robinvale Euston, the odds were long that three figures were even a possibility.
“We were in a bit of strife early,” Heath said.
“When I came out, it was before drinks, so we probably were only 18 or so overs in.
“I haven’t played much this year, but it’s been discussed that one of the biggest goals is to bat out the overs, so that was really my thought more than anything.”
What resulted was an unbeaten 100 at the Onion Patch at Quandong Park, which included an eighth wicket 78-run partnership with Brad Purdue.
Ridge were all out for 209 inside the final over, going on to win by 86 runs as they dismissed the Rangers for 123.
“It’s better than the first game where I got a third-ball duck,” an understated Heath said of his innings.
“I still can’t really believe it, to be honest, it doesn’t actually feel real.
“I haven’t played for about three years, last time being at Irymple, I just have had other commitments.
“My brother (Zac) is vice-captain at Ridge, and he had just been into me for a while about coming to play, but this was only my second game for the club.
“I think I’ll need to play the rest of the season to ensure I play enough games to qualify for finals.”
The right-hander said his side is eyeing a top-two finish, which is where they currently sit, two wins ahead of Tempy and two behind defending champions Ouyen.
“Top-two finish would obviously be preferable for a home final,” he said.
“Ouyen are probably still the team to beat this year, but if we can bat the full 40 overs and take early wickets, anything is possible.”
Red Cliffs Cricket Association has a bye this weekend before returning to action on February 4.
