By Chris Haynes
Wanderers will take on minor premiers RSL in the Stanthorpe Cricket Association grand final at CF White Oval after a thrilling one-wicket victory over Souths in a low scoring game on Saturday.
Playing at CF White second-placed Souths won the toss and were all out for 90 in the 33rd over with Wanderers, who had been in third after the home and away season, finally passing them in the 34th over with just one wicket in hand.
Souths openers got away to a steady start with Captain Liam Lanza 19(35) and Nalin Nipiko 11(26).
Andrew Einam and Jamie Carnell were bowling tightly and in a short space of time the pair turned the game on its head.
Souths went quickly from 0/34 to 4/36 and had the top for back in the sheds thanks to two wickets a piece from Einam and Carnell.
Ben Staley and Selina Solman steadied but the Wanderers bowlers kept toiling away and taking regular wickets.
Savanah Bambery chipped in late with a well-constructed 10(25) but when she was last player out Souths, who had managed to set their opposition a 91-run chase. Carnell 3/17 and Einam 4/15 were outstanding.
Wanderers strong batting line up would have every chance to run the total down but Liam Lanza and Nalin Nipiko had other ideas.
In no time Niiko had two wickets and Wanderers were 2/9.
Jamie Carnell 39(68) and Isaak Wallis 11(31) steadied the ship and Wanderers gained control again.
Selina Solman bowled a great spell to support the opening bowlers and removed Wallis.
Liam Lanza, the Souths captain, rolled the dice and went back to his opening bowlers and it paid dividends.
Andrew Einam went with the total on 67 and Carnell finally went with the total on 69.
Wanderers were still in control when Solman removed Rachel Andrew and Naveen Koppula with the score on 77.
With plenty of overs left Kenny Tari and Barry Bullow chipped away at the total.
In another twist both then fell with the score on 86.
Needing five to win Isaac Hill came to the crease. A number of maidens went by and the game was in the balance for a spot next week.
Nasimana Navaika hit a 4 in the 33rd over to seal a memorable win for Wanderers.
Souths bowlers were led by Nipiko 3/26 and Selina Solman 3/19 but fell agonisingly short.
Presentation night
Saturday Night saw Stanthorpe and district cricket host their night of nights at the RSL club.
A great evening was had by all with many awards celebrating the 23/24 Season. Luke Brady was inducted as the newest Life member of Stanthorpe Cricket.
He also had the honour of then presenting his son Rohan Brady the top award for Stanthorpe Cricket player of the year for the second year in a row.
