RAZOR’S EDGE – 31 OCTOBER 2026
After a solid team batting effort, Canterbury’s Michael (Razor) Rae showed he is fully recovered from recent ankle surgery, producing a match-turning 4-9 spell that has left the Premier Men in a strong position after day one of their clash with Riccarton at Riccarton Domain.
The Premier Women remain winless after being unable to contain North West Women on Sydenham 1, while on Sydenham 3, a superb all-round performance from Ryan James (61 and 5-18) wasn’t quite enough to prevent a narrow first-innings deficit against Halswell. Division 2 had reason to celebrate, marking teammate Cameron Spriggs’ 200th match with a 15-run first-innings lead over Merivale Papanui at Hagley 4. Gaurav Jadhav was the standout performer, contributing an unbeaten 42 and 3-26.
Cameron Spriggs (left) & Graham Harris
The Tamils XI produced the team performance of the day in the afternoon grades. Led by Dinesh Chandran (55), Arunravi Ravindranathan (63) and Rajendran Parthipan (39*), they successfully chased down Hornby’s challenging total of 234. The Goats also had some outstanding individual efforts, with Jesse Mark taking 5-29 and Joe Taylor scoring 42, but they couldn’t quite get their side over the line. The most convincing victory belonged to the Masters Cardinals, who cruised to a 10-wicket win over Lancaster Park, with openers Kelvin Giles (42*) and Grant Ross (40*) completing the chase unbeaten.
It was an excellent day for the youth sides, highlighted by another extraordinary performance from Year 9A’s Lachlan Haig. Backing up last week’s century, Lachlan smashed a magnificent unbeaten 185 from just 102 balls. Alongside Joel Barlowe (61), he helped set North Canterbury Youth a formidable target of 349, which proved beyond their reach. Lachlan’s 185* is a 10-year club record that dates back to 2016 when 2C’s Rohan Jangam scored 207*, indeed surpasses Bevon Jacob’s 178 in 2022-23.
The Year 9Bs also recorded a convincing win, with Arpit Singh contributing an unbeaten 55, while Haziq Hammand and Noah Gardner both scored 40s and picked up two wickets apiece.
In the youth 1st XI versus 2nd XI local derby, the 1st XI eventually came out on top, but not without a challenge. The 2nd XI’s Liam Kinzett led the way with 68, helping his side post a competitive 163. However, Liam Beck (34*) and Samuel Wild (30*) held their nerve to guide the 1st XI home. The 3rd XI were also convincing winners, built around a 97-run opening partnership between Nichchay (48) and Luke Griffith (39), before Rishabjit Singh wrapped things up with an impressive 4-13.
Some of the photos in this publication are also courtesy of Ash Hart’s Hartland Images.
PREMIER MEN
DAY 1
Sydenham 254/8
Riccarton 91 & 24/3
The Premier Men finished day one firmly in control of their fourth-round encounter with Riccarton, producing a solid batting performance before Michael (Razor) Rae tore through the home side’s batting line-up on his return from injury. Having lost the toss and been asked to bat on a typically green Riccarton Domain wicket, Sydenham made a steady start, with openers Jackson Hemmingway and Michael Robinson (15) putting on 59 for the first wicket.
Michael Rae
When Jacko departed for a well-made 43 in the 12th over, Brandon Matzopoulos (49 off 87 balls) took on the anchor role, helping guide Sydenham through to 166-3 before falling just short of a half-century. Ryan Wallace again made an important contribution, scoring 37 off 46 balls, and when he was dismissed at 213-5 in the 45th over, Sydenham were well placed to push for a quick finish to the innings.
Jackson Hemmingway Brandon Matzopoulos
Dylan McArdle took up the challenge superbly, launching three sixes in a blistering 49 off just 28 balls. With Cullen Crowe and Michael Rae also sacrificing in an endeavour to accelerate the run rate, skipper Mitch Gardner was able to declare at 254-8 after 51 overs, giving his bowlers a total to work with.
Ryan Wallace Dylan McArdle
The Riccarton reply got off to a disastrous start, with Michael Rae claiming the first two wickets in his opening over. Having missed the opening two rounds of Canterbury’s season while recovering from ankle surgery, Razor showed little sign of rust as he steamed in and continued to trouble the home batsmen. A few overs later he struck twice more, leaving Riccarton struggling at 30-5 in the 13th over.
Riccarton skipper Ethan O’Donoghue did his best to hold things together, but when Mitch Gardner claimed his wicket, followed by two quick strikes from Tom Agnew, the home side had slumped to 32-7. Doig and Bazley then dug in, putting up some stubborn resistance over the next eight overs, but the introduction of previous week’s leading wicket-taker, Archie Goodrick, brought the innings to a close. Archie claimed the final three wickets to finish with 3-28, as Riccarton were dismissed for just 91 in the 29th over.
Rae was the standout, finishing with the remarkable figures of 4-9 from six overs, while outside of Archie’s three, Gardner and Agnew shared the remaining three wickets. Behind the stumps, Aarush Bhagwat also had an outstanding day, taking six catches, including two or three particularly athletic low diving efforts.
Mitch Gardner
With a first-innings lead of 163 and 16 overs remaining in the day, Sydenham enforced the follow-on in the hope of making further inroads before stumps. Riccarton managed to see off Rae’s three overs, but had no answer to Gardner at the other end. The Sydenham skipper claimed all three wickets to fall, finishing with 3-7 as the home side closed on 24-3 in their second innings, still trailing by 139 runs.
PREMIER WOMEN
DAY 1
North West Women 224/9 (50 overs)
Sydenham 117 (38.4 overs)
No match report
Full scoreboard: https://www.playhq.com/new-zealand-cricket/org/christchurch-metro-cricket-associationcjca/summer-202627/ev-power-premier-women/game-centre/606e7772
DIVISION 1 MEN
DAY 1
Sydenham 113 & 1/0
Halswell 122
Match report courtesy of Todd Ward
The first day of Sydenham’s match against Halswell began with the visitors winning the toss and sending us in to bat. On a tricky wicket we knew it was going to be a tough task to start the day.
We started poorly, losing our first wicket in the third over to bring Ryan James to the crease. Akshan Gulati and RJ consolidated nicely as Halswell were bowling good areas and making the pitch talk. We began to start finding the boundary until Akshan was dismissed going aerial. At 47-2, Sydenham looked to be poised to post a commanding score. However, Halswell had other ideas, continuing to bowl good areas, Todd Ward and Brodie Hemingway were dismissed cheaply. RJ closing in on his 50 needed support from the other end which brought James Barnes to the crease. At 60-4, the pair started to turn the tables. Barnsey rotating the strike nicely for RJ, who was seemingly batting on another pitch. Unfortunately the second over after drinks RJ was dismissed for a run a ball 61. Still poised at 94-5 with plenty of overs to bat the Sydenham shuffle was no myth today. Losing 6 wickets for a measly 19 runs saw us all out for 113.
Ryan James
Somewhat disappointed with our batting performance it was our turn to utilize the pitch conditions. We knew we needed a good start if we were to have any chance of securing first innings. Tom Elliot (2-24-9) and RJ had the pleasure of taking the new ball and delivered. Taking 3 wickets in the first 3 overs was the start Sydenham needed. A few overs later RJ struck again with Halswell now 17-4 and the Sydenham lads rallying. Another great opening spell from the pair which allowed McKenzie Kirk (3-16-8) to shine. The bowling change proved vital with McKenzie taking his well deserved and long awaited first wicket of the season. At this stage Halswell were 45-5 and losing wickets fast. McKenzie would take 2 more wickets to round off his impressive spell.
At 71-7, Sydenham seemingly on top however we knew Halswell only needed one partnership to secure first innings. Halswell starting to consolidate and slowly creeping towards the first innings target we knew wickets needed to come from somewhere. RJ was introduced taking a wicket with his 3rd ball giving Sydenham hope of getting first innings. However, this wasn’t the case as the Halswell tail put together 20 runs for the 9th wicket. Obviously disappointing, RJ brought a shining light to the innings taking the last 2 wickets to take impressive figures of 5-18-9.3.
Overall, a very hard-fought day with promising signs going into next week with Noah Dean and Akshan Gulati at the crease.
DIVISION 2 MEN
DAY 1
Merivale Papanui 122/8
Sydenham 137/6
Match report courtesy of Ajith Shetty
It was a beautiful sunny day at Old Hagley Park No. 4 this weekend, with India A and New Zealand A taking centre stage at the main Hagley Oval. Meanwhile, we had our own contest to worry about against Merivale Papanui Cricket Club. Our pitch was greener than Granny’s apple, with a few patches still showing from its previous use — certainly looking like a bowler’s paradise!
Before the cricket got underway, we had a surprise visit from our long-serving former club president Graham Harris, who served the club for an impressive 16 consecutive years. There was another special occasion to celebrate, with Cameron Spriggs (Muzz) marking his 200th game for Sydenham Cricket Club.
Graham shared a few kind words about Muzz, recognising his loyalty and commitment to the club, and his ability to bat, keep wickets and always put his hand up when Sydenham needed him. He then presented Muzz with his special 200-game Sydenham baggy red cap. A fantastic milestone and a proud moment for both Muzz and the club. There’s no doubt he’s a handy batter and keeper, and he’s now having a crack at bowling in training too — clearly working towards becoming a complete all-rounder. At this rate, a Black Caps call-up can’t be too far away! Jokes aside, congratulations Muzz. Here’s to many more games in the red and blue!
Sydenham got to work with the ball, but our opening bowlers had little luck, with an early breakthrough slipping away through a no-ball. Conway Andrews and Ivon Cheruvathoor came on as first change and soon found their rhythm. Conway made good use of the patchy areas, while Ivon kept things tight with good line, swing and length. The pressure eventually paid off, with Merivale losing their first wicket at 23.
Conway struck again soon after, and another breakthrough had Merivale at 49/3. Their middle order then began rebuilding with some sensible batting, rotating the strike and keeping the scoreboard ticking. Gaurav joined the attack and picked up two wickets in the middle, taking Merivale to 76/5. Shevon Perrier then brought his spin into play, keeping the batters tied down and claiming two wickets. Muzz also produced a ripper of a catch behind the stumps to add to the celebrations of his milestone game. Merivale finished their 45 overs at 122/8 — a solid bowling effort from the Sydenham boys.
Knowing the pitch conditions, Isaac Tutt and Sam Johns opened our innings with a sensible approach, punishing the bad balls while respecting the good ones. Isaac got off to a flying start, finding the boundary with some early sixes and fours to make a statement.
Merivale’s experienced left-arm seamer Nathan Columbus made the first breakthrough, with Sydenham at 21/1. A couple more quick wickets followed, leaving us under pressure at 24/3, but Sam Johns was still holding his ground at the crease. Gaurav (GJ) joined him to rebuild the innings. The pair put together a valuable 40-run partnership before Sam departed for a well-made 37 off 70 balls following a close LBW decision, leaving Sydenham at 63/4.
Merivale’s experienced bowling attack certainly made us work for every run. One of their senior bowlers joked that he could hardly see the stumps but could certainly smell a wicket coming! With that sort of experience and instinct, perhaps eyesight isn’t everything!
Shevon joined Gaurav, and the pair put together another crucial 48-run partnership, taking Sydenham to 111/5 and within touching distance of the first-innings lead. However, Nathan Columbus produced an unplayable delivery to bowl Shevon, sending the bails flying and giving Merivale a glimmer of hope.
But you can’t keep Muzz out of the action for long! Playing his 200th game, Cameron got off the mark with a lovely back-foot cut towards point for two, taking Sydenham past Merivale’s total. Gaurav Jadhav (GJ) made a valuable all-round contribution, taking two wickets with the ball before scoring a crucial 42 not out to hold the innings together. Sam Johns also played an important role with a sensible knock of 37, while Shevon Perera chipped in with 22 runs and two wickets. Together, their contributions helped guide Sydenham to 137/6 after 42 overs, securing a valuable 15-run first-innings lead.
A great all-round team effort, with the bowlers putting Merivale under pressure and the batters building two important partnerships to get us over the line. A special day for Muzz, a welcome visit from Graham, and a handy first-innings lead to take into next week’s play. Sydenham are sitting in a good position — let’s keep the momentum going!
Full scoreboard: https://www.playhq.com/new-zealand-cricket/org/christchurch-metro-cricket-associationcjca/summer-202627/mens-division-2-red/game-centre/03ccc9d0
DIVISION 3 TAMIL XI
WON
Hornby 233/7 (40 overs)
Sydenham 234/3 (35.45 overs)
Match report courtesy of Naveen Thangaraju
Sydenham pulled off a phenomenal run chase to secure a thrilling victory over Hornby at Centennial Park, successfully hunting down a daunting target of 234 thanks to a historic batting performance where three top-order batters smashed magnificent half-centuries, capped off by Parthi finishing the job.
Dinesh Raja
First Innings: Hornby Sets the Target
After Hornby won the toss and elected to bat, they posted a formidable total of 233/7. Their innings was defined by a massive, unbeaten century from Mike Cameron, who carried his bat for 117 not out, alongside a solid 39 runs from Prasant. Sydenham’s bowlers fought hard to keep the target within reach, led by Rajendran Parthipan incredibly clinical spell of 2 wickets for just 4 runs, with Vignesh, Arun, Mohan, and Chidambaran each claiming crucial breakthroughs to limit Hornby’s late-innings surge.
Arun Ravindranathan
Second Innings: Sydenham’s Masterclass Chase
Chasing a daunting target of 234 for victory, Sydenham’s batting lineup put on an absolute masterclass under pressure, spearheaded by a historic top-order performance where three consecutive batters passed the fifty-run milestone. Dinesh set an explosive tone right from the start by punishing the Hornby bowlers for 55 runs before being caught off Karthick. Niranjan kept the foot firmly on the gas with a fluent and aggressive 51 runs before falling caught to Jessy, while Arun Raavan anchored the middle of the chase with total composure, top-scoring for the side with a brilliant 63 runs before being dismissed caught off Lucas. Following the departure of the half-centurions, Parthi stepped up to play a phenomenal finishing knock of 37 not out, taking complete control of the closing stages alongside Monty (9 not out) to guide Sydenham safely past the target and secure a legendary, high-scoring victory.
Full scoreboard: https://www.playhq.com/new-zealand-cricket/org/christchurch-metro-cricket-associationcjca/summer-202627/ev-power-knockout-div-34/game-centre/3ef5d6be
DIVISION 3 GOATS
LOST
New Brighton 175/87 (40 overs)
Sydenham 93 (26.2 overs)
Match report courtesy of Arjun Das
Goats arrived at Rawhiti Domain to face NBCC Turf Bar Pegasus, greeted by a bright, sunny day after a heavy night of rain. Winning the toss, the Goats opted to bowl first to make early use of any moisture left in the pitch. NBCC got off to a steady start, though the Goats managed to keep the run rate under control early on. The tide turned dramatically when Jesse Marks was introduced to the attack, ripping through the NBCC lineup to bag a brilliant five-wicket haul. However, just as the Goats looked to restrict the opposition to a modest total, a frustrating 77-run 9th-wicket partnership between Brendan Dobier and Connor Williams turned the innings on its head. That late counter-attack pushed NBCC all the way up to a competitive target of 175.
In reply, the Goats got off to a solid opening start, with Joe Taylor playing the anchor role and scoring at a strong rate to keep the chase on track. He combined with George Wigley for a quality 51-run second-wicket partnership that put us in a commanding position. Unfortunately, once that stand was broken, the innings unravelled rapidly. The Goats suffered a catastrophic collapse through the middle order, losing a cluster of wickets for virtually no runs. Despite brief resistance late in the order from Jesse Marks and Matt Taylor, the damage was already done, and the collapse ultimately sealed a disappointing defeat.
Full scoreboard: https://www.playhq.com/new-zealand-cricket/org/christchurch-metro-cricket-associationcjca/summer-202627/ev-power-knockout-div-34/game-centre/6d1abade
DIVISION 4 ROYAL CHALLENGERS
LOST
Hornby 222/9/ (40 overs)
Sydenham 51 (20.1 overs)
Match report courtesy of Lathish TM
A tough day for Sydenham Royal Challengers!
Hornby Hawks Rolly Hustlers posted a strong total of 222/9 in 40 overs, with Jaggi Singh leading the way with an impressive 61, supported by Harmandeep Sharma (29) and Karpal Singh (24). Our bowlers put in a good effort, with Shyam Karuthedath Narayanankutty picking up 4 wickets, while Lathish TM and TK claimed one wicket each.
Unfortunately, we couldn’t find our rhythm with the bat and were bowled out for 51 in 20.1 overs. A disappointing result, but plenty of lessons to take away. Congratulations to Hornby Hawks on a well-deserved win. We regroup, learn from this one and come back stronger!
Full scoreboard: https://www.playhq.com/new-zealand-cricket/org/christchurch-metro-cricket-associationcjca/summer-202627/ev-power-knockout-div-34/game-centre/12c54cfc
DIVISION 5 ALL-STARS
LOST
Southern Districts 216/9 (40 overs)
Sydenham 96/9 (30.4 overs)
Match report courtesy of Abe Atherton
Playing at Waltham Park #1, the Sydenham All Stars EV Power started the day on a promising note after winning the toss and opting to bowl first. The opening bowling attack struck early to reduce the opposition to 11/3, anchored by an outstanding spell from Abraham Atherton, who claimed 4 for 33 in his 8 overs. David Te Au (1/23 off 7) and Cameron Hatcher (1/22 off 5) provided tight control alongside Atherton to keep the top order under intense early pressure.
However, the opposition managed to rebuild their innings through solid middle-order partnerships and a rapid late-overs assault. Sydenham’s momentum slipped away in the field, as poor fielding standards, missed run-out opportunities, and dropped catches repeatedly let the opposition off the hook. Behind the stumps, Andrew Reynolds accounted for three dismissals with two catches and a stumping, while Jacob Koster held two catches in the outfield, but the defensive lapses ultimately allowed the opposition to build a formidable total of 216/9 from their 40 overs.
Chasing 217 for victory, Sydenham’s run chase never fully gained traction. Jacob Koster stood out with the bat, top-scoring with a spirited 35 off 39 balls (including two 4s and a 6), while David Te au (15) and Sumedha Senarathna (10) offered brief resistance. Top-order stumbles and a persistent middle-order collapse left the team well short of the target, finishing at 96/9 after 30.4 overs as the opposition claimed a decisive victory.
Full scoreboard: https://www.playhq.com/new-zealand-cricket/org/christchurch-metro-cricket-associationcjca/summer-202627/ev-power-knockout-div-5/game-centre/f0662f45
MASTER CARDINALS
WON
Lancaster Park 90/8 (40 overs)
Sydenham 94/0 (15.4 overs)
Match report courtesy of Kevin Moore
The Cardinals finally got to play their first game of the season with a resounding win over Lancaster Park on Woolston Park. Winning the toss, the Cardinals chose to bowl on a well prepared pitch with a lush manicured outfield.
An unrelenting bowling attack showed no mercy with accuracy, pace and swing. This was backed by excellent fielding and keeping with sound catching led by skipper Phil with two superb takes. Park struggled to 90 off 40 overs. Chris O’Connell 8 overs 3-17, Brendon Winder 8-2-9. Brad Moore 8-1-21. Dave Fleming 8-2-8, Paul Mathews 4-0-3, Phil Walker 4-0-21.
In reply openers Grant Ross with a well composed 41 and exciting new team member Kelvin Giles belligerent 42 saw the Cardinals chase the total down in 15 overs.
Man of Match: Brendon Winder
Full scoreboard: https://www.playhq.com/new-zealand-cricket/org/christchurch-metro-cricket-associationcjca/summer-202627/joes-garage-masters/game-centre/0525e5ec
MASTERS HOSPITAL
LOST
Sydenham 157/8 (40 overs)
Merivale Papanui 159/5 (32.5 overs)
Match report courtesy of Bruce Day
After waiting 3 weeks, Hospital finally got the season started traveling to Edger Mac to take on Merivale Papanui. After losing the toss Hospital was sent in to bat on interesting looking track. After 14 overs we were 43/4 and in recovery mode. Next wicket was at 89 with Tim gone for 43, this started another flurry of 3 wickets before Tristan Pettit and John did another rebuilding job and then Tristan and Rahul hitting some big boundaries in the last couple of overs. Hospital finished on 157/8 which After the start we had we were quite happy with.
Merivale started with some big shots before the first wicket fell at 15. Then Hume and Bell got together running sharp singles and dispatching the bad balls in a 90 run partnership that pretty much broke the back of the run chase. We got 3 more wickets amongst 4 dropped catches before Merivale got the runs at 5 down with Hume not out in a well managed run chase. Best of our bowlers was Rahul with 2/32 of 7 overs.
Full scoreboard: https://www.playhq.com/new-zealand-cricket/org/christchurch-metro-cricket-associationcjca/summer-202627/joes-garage-masters/game-centre/0b339f48
T20 CAVALIERS
LOST
Sydenham 143/3 (20 overs)
Riccarton Unknown
Match report courtesy of Jamie Livingstone
The Cardinals rocked up to Spreydon Park at 1:30pm, keen for a 2pm start. The opposition (they who shall not be named) rolled in just before 2pm with six players. They won the toss and chose to field. We happily strapped on the pads, then waited while they stretched out the start and their stragglers turned up.
When we finally got going, Woolfy, freshly promoted to open, went boom. and smashed seven 4s and a 6 on his way to 41* (retired) off just 22 balls. Sam Rendall followed with a classy 27 off 19 before being run out. Camo scratched around for 8. Then Smitty (36* off 28) and Stokesy (21* off 20) put together two controlled knocks to steer us to a very reasonable 143/3.
At the break, the team and a good crowd of supporters got stuck into a fine selection of beverages courtesy of Camo and Stokesy, plus a cracking BBQ spread from Jezza. Cheers lads. For reasons known only to himself, Stokesy tossed Lart’s the new ball. Off his heavily modified one-step run-up, he struck first ball. Their opener stepped back and across, right in front of middle, and was given LBW. Confusion followed as the batter stood his ground and gave the umpire a solid two-minute earful, before trudging off to umpire at square leg, still in his pads, much to our concern. Lart’s grabbed a second in his next over, thanks to a good catch by Stokesy at long on.
Smitty toiled away at the other end and was unlucky/robbed not to get a plumb LBW, back in the crease and dead in front. That one took the wind out of our sails. Their batters had now worked out they could plant the front foot in front of the stumps and swing freely, with no risk attached. Manny came on and picked up another, with Barnesy taking a second good catch at long on. Woolfy then knocked the top of the stumps to add another.
At 70/5 after 10 overs, the game was evenly poised, with us slightly ahead. But a mix of loose bowling on our part and a generous licence from their umpires let their batters find the boundary, and we were set for a tight finish.
Sadly, that’s where it fell apart. Another plumb LBW, batter back and in front, was turned down. A spirited debate followed, covering our differing views on the Laws of Cricket, whether the Spirit of Cricket is actually a thing, and what a top bunch of blokes they were.
A disappointing end. They didn’t lose another wicket and knocked off our total with two overs to spare.
Full scoreboard: https://www.playhq.com/new-zealand-cricket/org/christchurch-metro-cricket-associationcjca/summer-202627/cavaliers-section-red-t20/game-centre/a703d38d
T20 GUJARAT KINGS
WON
Sydenham 139/8 (20 overs)
BWU 123/8 (18 overs)
Match report courtesy of Yash Patel
A brilliant 16-run victory against Tunnel Wash BWU Sticky Wickets at Polo Grounds! After last week’s disappointment, the boys responded in style with an all-round team performance. BATTING HIGHLIGHTS: Arya Baxi – 42 (34), Dhairya Goswami – 24 (14). BOWLING HIGHLIGHTS: Arya Baxi – 3/22 & Daman – 2/22.
What a difference this week! Keyur Patel with two crucial catches and Ankit Patel brilliant behind the stumps. Everyone stepped up, backed the bowlers and executed the plans perfectly.
Arya held the innings together after early wickets, while Dhairya provided a quick-fire finish. With the ball, everyone took responsibility, bowled to the field and kept the pressure on. The opposition were all out in just 18 overs!
A proper TEAM performance. Everyone contributed, everyone stepped up!
WOMEN CHAMPIONSHIP
BYE
Bye week for the 2nd’s.
DIVISION 2 WOMEN
WON
Sydenham 213/2 (25 overs)
North Canty women 66/8 (18.1 overs)
Match report courtesy of Jeremy Rutherford
This week the Div 2 Women headed north to Rangiora, playing with short boundaries at Dudley “Eden” Park. The wet conditions over the previous days meant that pitch preparation hadn’t been as a groundsman would like and a healthy green grass cover was still present, however the underlying surface was excellent and the pitch margins had been marked with paint so we all knew where the limits lay. After losing the toss, we were sent in to bat with a damp but drying outfield and the team eyeing the close boundaries with hunger. Our openers had a plan (“hit the ball over the boundary”) that they implemented from very early on which pushed the North Canterbury field into a defensive pattern, relieving any pressure on the batters and allowing us latitude that we haven’t really seen before. With our openers having set the scene, the remainder of our batting innings was approached with freedom, boundaries coming frequently and extra runs being earned from good shot placement and sensible running. Bearing in mind that we retire after 35 balls, some batting scores to note were: Natalia Cook – 36 (retired), Hazel Rutherford – 35 (retired), Fliss Sewell – 35 (retired) & Abbey Thompson – 28
At the innings break, we talked about the lack of pressure that our batters felt from the field, and how this gave us freedom to play shots and take easy runs. We took this learning into the field and, through accurate bowling, smart field sets and keeping active in the field, we were able to keep the batters aware of our presence and really choked their flow of runs. An absolutely star bowling performance from our opening bowler Juliette Cranfield saw her take 3 wickets (all bowled) in her opening 2-over spell. The North Canterbury batters were able to find the boundary on occasion, using good shots and the pace coming from our fast bowlers, however our dominance in the field and with the ball wrapped up their innings cheaply, Fliss taking the final wicket and ending with figures of 1 delivery, 1 wicket. Notable bowling performances were: Juliette Cranfield – 3 wickets, 1 run from 3 overs, Isla Crang – 1/5 from 2 overs,Bella Maddaford – 1/1 from 2 overs, Hazel Rutherford – 2/18 from 2 overs, Bronte Fitzhardinge – 0/3 from 2 overs & Abbey Thompson – 0/3 from 2 overs
This was a dominant performance from our team however we showed genuine respect towards the North Canterbury side and the game was played in great spirit. North Canterbury were a great opposition and they didn’t give up. It was pleasing to see our batters play with freedom and enjoyment and to see our field remain active, alert and accurate right throughout the innings. Also, accurate bowling resulted in less than 10 wides bowled by the team…..which results in ice-creams shouted by the coach…..
Big thanks to North Canterbury for the game, to Jeremy Crang for scoring and to all the support from the boundary.
Full scoreboard: https://www.playhq.com/new-zealand-cricket/org/christchurch-metro-cricket-associationcjca/cmca-adult-summer-202627/womens-division-2/game-centre/601e9604
SOCIAL WOMEN T20
WON
Marist Harewood 72/5 (20 overs)
Sydenham 73/4 (12 overs)
Match report courtesy of Linda Pettigrew
Social 8 had a mixed sandwich, with a dodgy start and end, and good game in the middle. The shaky start was due to Linda picking up the kit bag and finding that both stumps and a ball were missing once at the park. Luckily we were able to recycle one of the old balls and the opposition clubhouse had a set of stumps. The unfortunate end was Caitlin’s dog Daisy taking a ball to the shoulder from the Men’s match being played next door. Daisy was very shaken, as were the rest of the team. Fortunately we had a vet playing for the opposition that was able to do a quick examination and provide some advice. We wish Daisy a speedy recovery.
Back to the game. Everyone was on time 🙂 so we warmed up (not really the done thing in Social 8s but hopefully it minimises injuries). Losing the toss the opposition took a while to decide what to do and asked us so we got a bowl first. With our two keepers away we had Greer Hill take the gloves for the first 10 and Anna Swan (usually a bowler but says she kept once back in primary school) volunteered for the remaining 10. MHH made a solid start, with Anna taking the first wicket at the end of the 4th over. Kiyo, bowling the following over, then picked up two wickets but unfortunately was unable to convert the start to a hat-trick. Kiyo 2 /3 and Anna 2 /4 were the top bowlers. MHH batted all their overs, finishing up with 72 runs.
Sydenham had a mixed start in the chase, losing the first wichet at the end of the first over. Our two young players, Emma Barclay and Niamh McWhirter combined for a 31 run partnership as Niamh made another good contribution to the total (31). With a few shakes in the middle, Kiyo helped stabilise. Kiyo and Anna finished up, making sure the chase was successful in 12 overs.
Another solid match for our ladies.
YOUTH 1ST XI & 2nd XIs
1ST XI WON
Sydenham 2nd XI 163 (45 overs)
Sydenham 1st XI 167/6 (32.1 overs)
Match report courtesy of Daniel Herd
It was a special occasion at Sydenham Park on Saturday as the Sydenham Youth 1st XI and 2nd XI met in what is believed to be the first competitive match between the two sides in the club’s history. With both teams training together each week, it was very much a case of mates playing against mates, but there was no shortage of competitive spirit as the 1st XI eventually secured a four-wicket win.
Having elected to bat first, the 2nd XI made a competitive 163, built around an excellent innings from Liam Kinzett, who top-scored with 68 from 97 balls. Rupert Nielsen provided some fireworks with an aggressive 19 from just 21 deliveries, including two sixes, while Om Akash Patel added a useful 15. The 1st XI shared the wickets around, with Bayley Gardner leading the attack with an excellent 3/24 from 10 overs. Daniel Barclay claimed two wickets, while Quinn Helms, Liam Beck and Harry Durdin also picked up two each.
The 2nd XI then showed they were more than capable with the ball, making the 1st XI work for their runs. Rupert Nielsen was particularly impressive, taking 2/14 from six overs, while Joe Wilke, Om Akash Patel and Eli Helms also claimed wickets. Their disciplined bowling and ability to take regular wickets kept the contest alive and put genuine pressure on the 1st XI.
When the 1sts batted, Dhruv Arvindkumar and William Herd got them off to a strong start, putting on 31 before Herd was unfortunately run out following a mix-up. Dhruv continued to score freely, making 30 from 32 balls, before Noah Green fell to Rupert Nielsen, who then removed Finlay Hill for 20 to give the 2nd XI some real momentum. Harry Durdin added 15, but his dismissal left the 1st XI at 88/5 and suddenly with plenty still to do.
Liam Beck
With the game becoming more interesting than the 1st XI might have hoped, Liam Beck and Samuel Wild stepped up with positive innings to guide their side home. Beck finished unbeaten on 34, while Wild’s aggressive 30 not out from just 24 balls ensured the chase was completed in 32.1 overs.
There were some nervous moments for the 1st XI, but the 2nd XI deserved plenty of credit for the quality of their performance. Liam Kinzett’s batting, Nielsen’s aggressive approach and the contributions right through the side demonstrated just how strong the base of quality cricketers is within the Sydenham youth club.
While the 1st XI took the bragging rights this time, the real winner was the club. It was a great occasion, showcasing the depth of talent, friendships and competitive spirit within the Sydenham youth programme.
YOUTH 3RD XI
WON
Sydenham 200 (32.2 overs)
Shirley Boys HS 93 (22.1 overs)
Match report courtesy of Shannon O’Donnell
Sydenham won the toss and chose to bat on a sunny day with relatively fast outfield. Our opening pair of Luke Griffith (39/52) and Nishchay Singh (48/74) got us off to a fantastic start with the score to 97. We then lost steady wickets with some nice wicket to wicket bowling from Shirly, until a nice and timely partnership from Ruan Diederiks (26/21) and Austin Grant (19/10), bring our total to 200 after 32 overs.
Shirly then set about a solid looking opening partnership until James Gross (5 – 14 – 1) made a crucial break through with some more full length bowling that served him well last week, and looking like a great opening bowling option. Rishabjit Singh (4 – 13 – 4) came on first change and delivered a great spell of more full length bowling , and took 4 fantastic wickets, and along with Nick Capaldi (3 – 20 – 3) snaring 3 of his own, the two of them essentially shut Shirly down and set Sydenham up for a solid win, knocking Shirly 3rds over for 93 in 22 overs.
The team is really gelling well, and all lads are creating a strong team environment that is showing on the field.
Full scoreboard: https://www.playhq.com/new-zealand-cricket/org/christchurch-metro-cricket-associationcjca/2026/cricket-express-2nd-grade/game-centre/22118664
YEAR 10
WON
St Bedes College
Sydenham
Unfortunately St Bede’s forfeited the match
YEAR 9A
WON
Sydenham 348/4 (40 overs)
Nth Canty Youth 111 (28.3 overs)
Match report courtesy of Matt Barlow
Sydenham Year 9A v North Canterbury Youth Cricket Club 9A Polo Grounds 2A
After winning the toss, captain Lachlan Haig chose to bat first on the artificial at Hagley Park’s polo grounds. Joel Barlow and Fletcher Hill opened the innings, and they were soon off to a fast start with Barlow continuing his form from last week. He was hitting the ball to all parts of the ground on his way to 61 off 36 balls. At the other end Hill (27 off 39) was patiently accumulating runs and the pair put on 85 for the first wicket in 9 overs. After another quick wicket fell, Haig joined Hill at the crease and the pair continued to accumulate runs before Hill eventually fell in the 16th over.
Joel Barlow 61
Haig passed 50 and continued to punish any loose bowling. He was well supported by Lennox Spain, with Spain feeding the strike regularly to Haig. Around the 30 over mark Haig started to accelerate and eventually reached a second hundred in as many weeks. After Spain was dismissed for a well-made 23, Hamish Ferguson continued to feed the strike to Haig who really started to put his foot down. At the 35 over mark Haig was on 128 but proceeded to bludgeon 73 runs off the last 5 overs (including 32 from the last over of the innings) finishing on an astonishing 185 not out from 102 balls. Haig’s innings was littered with pure cricket shots and raw power and really was a treat to watch.
Lachlan Haig 185*
After the innings break, North Canterbury made a good start, tackling the 9 an over required run rate, making it through to 24 before the first wicket fell in the 4th over. A lovely piece of bowling from Jack Thompson (1-14 off 4) saw the danger man depart. Wickets then started to fall at regular intervals as Nico Whitehead (2-10) Reuben Thorpe (2-11) and Joel Learman (2-16) all bowled quick and accurate spells. Learman was on a hat-trick in his 3rd over. The fielding was exceptional with a stunning diving catch to Jack Thompson and 3 good catches behind the stumps to keeper Barlow and first slip Spain. At 80-9 a gutsy 10th wicket stand saw North Canterbury through to 111 before the final wicket fell to the off-spin of Fletcher Hill in the 28th over.
Overall, it was a superb all-round performance from the lads with contributions from many different players, though we can’t go past that incredible 185* from captain fantastic to really set up the team performance.
Full scoreboard: https://www.playhq.com/new-zealand-cricket/org/christchurch-metro-cricket-associationcjca/2026/cricket-express-year-9-red/game-centre/a793b257
YEAR 9B
WON
Sydenham 292/6 (35 overs)
Selwyn Banks Peninsula 199/5 (35 overs)
Match report courtesy of Sarah Freeman
Today the team faced Selwyn Banks Peninsula on a beautiful sunny day at Brookside Park in Rolleston. After winning the toss, the team decided to bat with Haziq Hammad and Noah Gardner our opening partnership. Both lads with an outstanding start and just shy of 50 runs for each of them with Haziq Hammad clocking 44 runs from 50 balls and Noah 46 off 39. Our next batters Rithek Rajesh and Deep Mahyavanshi providing a solid partnership with Deep finishing on 33 runs off 16 balls. Both batters ended their innings after being bowled out. The team continued to push the runs and our star batter of the day Arpit Singh, aggressively scored 55 runs off 32 balls not out. The team finished their innings at 292-6. A really solid start had the team buzzing and it was a big score for Selwyn to chase.
The 9B lads set up a tight field and worked hard to keep the run rate down with the first 10 overs just under 4 an over. Some very tidy bowling from Luke Wilkinson only 22 runs off 5 overs and very similar from Noah Gardner with only 12 runs off 4 overs. The fielding was tight from our lads and our players worked hard to minimise any boundaries. In particular Alfie Reddington Maxwell and some awesome wicket keeping from Riley McAskill allowed us to move quickly towards a solid win of 93 runs. A great day for the team!
Full scoreboard: https://www.playhq.com/new-zealand-cricket/org/christchurch-metro-cricket-associationcjca/2026/cricket-express-year-9-black/game-centre/b0af8886
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