The Western Wildfires travelled to Maitland to play the 60s State Championships, where they eventually came third.
In the first game, Wildfires played Southern Districts and after losing the toss and being sent in on a damp wicket, they were bowled out for 163 in the 37th over. Most batsmen got a start but only two went on to make reasonable scores. Mark Freeman top scored with 53 retired and Chris Cox remained 49 no. Mark Warren made 15 and Steve Cronin 14 were the only others in double figures.
Southern Districts reached 6-164 after 35 overs. Peter Heslop took 2/19 and Mark McGrath 2/29, while Keith Parker and Dave Hartley both took a wicket. The game could have been closer if a few of the catches had been taken.
The next match was against the Mid North Coast. Wildfires showed an improved batting performance making a very good 7/194 off their 40 overs. Again Mark Freeman top scored with 40 retired also followed by Chris Cox making 38 retired. There were many other contributors being Kim Taylor 35, Peter Heslop 20, Steve Cronin 19 and Dave Hartley with 19no.
In reply, Mid North Coast were bowled out for 135. The bowlers shared the wickets, with Mark McGrath taking 2/6, Peter Heslop 2/12, Keith Parker 2/13, Steve Cronin 2/28 and Adam Hawkens 1/13.
After the rest day, again the Wildfires came outplaying well against the Henter Taverners side. The Hunter side batted first but were dismissed for only 87 in just 32 overs. Mark McGrath headed the bowling with 4/18, with Peter Heslop taking 2/11 and Keith Parker 2/19. There were single wickets to Dave Hartley and Mark Freeman.
Wildfires easily chased down the target making 4/88 from just17 overs. Chris Cox again batted well for 29 retired, helped by Peter Heslop being 27 no. and Steve Walsh making 10.
The final day was washed out for all teams, leaving the Wildfires in 3rd place which was good despite losing on the first day.
At the end of the week, teams were selected to attend the National Championships in Victoria. Those selected are: Chris Cox, Mark Freeman, Mark McGrath, Kim Taylor and Peter Heslop. Also from our club, David Glasson and Stuart Crisp will be joining these others in Victoria.
Also to be mentioned are Shane Broes and Brett Roach are off to represent NSW at the 55s Nationals as well as Glen Campbell and Neville Castle will be travelling to Canberra for the 70s Nationals.
