After yesterday’s match against Western Australia was abandoned due to rain, the revised schedule of the NICC saw Northern Territory face title contenders New South Wales and Victoria on day three of the Championships.
In game one, captain Lachlan Dunemann (Kalkadoon) won the toss and elected to bat first, with opener Aydan Allan (Walpiri) 15 and Benjamin Stares (Dharug & Dharawal) 24 the main contributors. Allister Young (Yawuru & Yamitji) 9 attempted to finish the innings strongly, but tight bowling from NSW restricted the Territorians to 5/57 from their 10 overs.
NSW batsmen Pat Rosser (39*) and Brendan Smith (15*) were brutal with their power hitting, racing to the target without losing a wicket in just over 4 overs. 15-year-old Harrison Johnny (Garawa Waanyi) bowled an economical over (0/4) as he continues to impress in his first NICC carnival.
Game two saw the Territorians bowl first against Victoria, with another strong opening batting partnership putting the NT side on the back-foot. Brad Ilott (Arrernte) 1/22 and Djarrin Stuart (Arrernte) 1/26 were the only wicket takers, with Harrison Johnny (Garawa Waanyi) and Steven Roser (Wuli Wuli) both taking smart catches, as the Victorian side posted 2/135.
Pat Jackson’s (4/2) opening spell removed all hope of a run chase for the NT side as they slumped to 4/8. Some gritty contributions from Lachlan Dunemann (Kalkadoon) 6 and Shane Buttfield (Kamilaroi) 8* helped to steady the innings, before 15-year-old Tyler Kelly (Warumungu & Luritja) 9* helped the side post a respectable 7/50 in just his first innings at the NICC level.
The NT side will be in action tomorrow against hosts Queensland, before their final match on Sunday against Tasmania.
Northern Territory (5/57 off 10 overs) Def by. New South Wales (0/61 off 4.1 overs).
Victoria (2/135 off 10 overs) Def. Northern Territory (7/50 off 10 overs).