Canterbury take under 21 national title

Canterbury won the recent National Under 21 Women's Cricket tournament, held at Ilam Oval, by beating Northern Districts in the final, with a convincing 116 run victory.

Canterbury's success was based around a strong team effort, with all players contributing through out the competition. Bowlers Hannah Rae, Sarah Burke, Beth McNeill and 15 year old Rebecca Steele performed well, each going for less than two an over and picking up wickets on a regular basis. The batting was strong, with Fiona Fraser having the top score at the tournament with 95. Others who contributed were Timaru duo Selina Charteris and Maria Fahey as well as Kirsty Craig and Erin Kelly.

Canterbury were in the unenviable position of being able to ease Clear White Fern member Haidee Tiffen into the tournament slowly. Tiffen rested for the first two games and performed well in the remaining games, including the final.

The middle order did a fine job in continuing the good work of the top order, scoring at a run a ball. Players such as McNeill, Jane Maley, Rae and pinch hitter Burke fell into this category.

The team was extremely athletic in the field taking some great catches. Tabatha Watereus, Fahey and Craig were the main contributors.

Commenting on the tournament victory, Canterbury coach Vicki Burtt said: "It was such a thrill for the players to win, many of who have been trying for 5 years. Our aim was to play positive cricket and make sure that we had fun doing it. We achieved these goals and now many of these young women are stepping up to the 1st XI for the state Insurance Cup."