A third successive finals century from opener Pat O'Beirne and a four-wicket haul from off-spinner Gareth Haeberle have helped University claim the 3rd XI premiership.
The 3s defeated Melbourne by 109 runs at Princes Park with captain Stewart Harris claiming the final wicket. After unfurling the premiership flag, Harris paid tribute to Melbourne, saying they were the benchmark for the competition and that beating them twice during the season made the success even sweeter.
Harris thanked the posse of players from the 1s, 2s, 4s and 5s who had wildly cheered every University run and Melbourne wicket over the two days, and the club members and officials and friends and relatives of players who had applauded at significant moments in the game.
The 3s’ nine-game winning streak went back to 24 January, but this victory was a particularly courageous one. Opener Jarrod Leggett batted on for two hours after being struck mid-ships and then went to hospital for an overnight stay. Matt Schofield had his right index finger broken early in his innings and went on to make 40 batting with his top hand only.
Before the finals, coach Dan Lowery had said that selectors always remember big performances in finals. After the game Lowery said that all 13 players used in the 3s’ finals campaign had made a significant contribution in at least one final.
Lowery said the premiership success was a great way for him to bow out as club coach. Increasing work commitments mean that Lowery will only be able to play for the club next season.
Congratulations also to the St Kilda 1s and Melbourne 4s who went on to win the flag after beating University in last weekend's semi-finals.