WBCA: Forestry book grand final place with thrilling four-run win over Bridgetown

Forestry have booked their place in the Warren Blackwood Cricket Association grand final with a thrilling four-run qualifying final win over Bridgetown at Collier Street Sporting Complex. After winning the toss and electing to bat, Kayne Aitken kicked off Forestry’s innings in typically aggressive style, racing to 43 from only 32 deliveries before being bowled by Thomas Wilson. A succession of Forestry batters failed to capitalise on promising starts after Aitken’s departure, with Blake Johnston, Connor Ipsen (both 26) and Samuel Vellios (25) all departing after getting themselves set. The innings was given some late impetus by Kallan Fall (31) and Jethro Namnik (21), who lifted the final score to 201 from 45 overs. Matthew Reynolds (2-13 from three overs), Hugh Mitchell (2-30 from 9 overs) and Wilson (2-44 from six overs) were the multiple wicket-takers for the visitors. In reply, the Bulldogs made a solid start with a 57-run opening stand between Hugh Mitchell and Thomas Clynch, which ended when the dangerous Mitchell was caught by Jethro Namnik off the bowling of Reece Edwards. Forestry looked in good shape after taking care of Clynch (26) and Matt Tassos (24), but the back half of the chase belonged to Brendon White, who looked likely to get his side home off his own bat. A late twist in the tale came when White was run out by Brock Tempara for 71, leaving his side with another eight runs needed for victory with one wicket in hand. Braden Gibellini (1-39 from eight overs) stepped up to seal the win for Forestry, knocking over Bridgetown No.11 Justin Terry without scoring.