Second, third grade Dogs unleash but not good enough
Talented young paceman Brad Simpson confirmed his outstanding potential when he ripped through the Students with 6-56. He received great support from Tushaar Garg who claimed 2-33.
Both need to thank acrobatic wicket keeper Cameron Middleton who grabbed his share of the limelight with six magnificent catches.
There is no doubt that Simpson is destined for much higher honours. His blistering pace enabled him to beat the bat repeatedly and he had all batsman back-pedalling. Garg has had an excellent season and has made his mark in the top grade.
Dayne Heward also bowled impressively and claimed 2-40 as the Students completed their innings.
After a confident start by openers Peter Dignam and Zeeshaan Ahmed, Bankstown capitulated for 146. Mitchell Hinds was his usual classy self and top scored with a spirited 49 while all-rounder Ben Le Bas, who batted at number 3, fought valiantly for 28.
A heroic performance by Alex Shipp helped the Bulldogs third grade side restrict the Students to 315 at St Paul’s Oval last weekend.
Schipp has threatened danger all season saving his best for the semi-final as his six-wicket haul was just what the Bulldogs needed to stay in contention and he has the ability to move the ball around disconcertingly. He is a very talented swing bowler who is always on target.
Fellow paceman Wallace Marshall added to the Students’ woes but with a score over 300, they appeared to have the whip hand.
Schipp and Marshall have formed a lethal combination. Schipp clean bowled two of his victims and secured a crucial run out to top off a wonderful day.
Alas the Bulldogs batsmen failed to bark and were all out for a meagre 87.
Skipper Iain Ridley top scored with 29, while Matt Dedes added 28, but the rest of the batting was very disappointing.
