Northern Inland’s first Cricket NSW 6er’s smash multicultural event at the University of New England was a huge hit with three Super 8 clashes taking place.
Armidale and Narrabri faced off in three eight-a-side matches where each team had seven overs in their innings to make an impact.
A local UNE team, led by Ahmad Sheeraz, were all set for a great challenge against the new Narrabri multicultural cricket side led by Thalpe Guruge Dumindu.
Unfortunately, two teams withdrew due to cricket finals commitments in Armidale and Tamworth, but following the success of the first day it is guaranteed that a league will be formed in this region.
The locals put on a good show but were unsuccessful in their attempt to thwart the visitors, with Narrabri winning two of the three games, which were played on turf.
Game two was the match of the day with UNE’s Samiullah Rana scoring an unbeaten 41.
His team were chasing 104 runs but fell just short after needing a six off the last ball to win.
Ullah Smi (38) and Mitch Clifton (31) were the backbone of Narrabri’s innings and largely responsible for making the chase a tough get for the home side.
The perpetual trophy for the event will now be at the major sponsors club until a second day is held before the start of the 2018-19 season.
Results from the day:
Game 1: Narrabri 92 d Armidale 89
Game 2: Narrabri 104 d Armidale 99
Game 3: Armidale 52 d Narrabri 50 in the sixth over over.
