Greater Northern Raiders: end of 2020 bout with New Town ahead

Despite plenty of positives, the Greater Northern Raiders were unable to overcome a massive total (332) posted by Clarence last round. A key highlight was Emma Manix-Geeves' batting; she scored her maiden century.

Raiders captain Caitlyn Webster said she was happy with how the team adjusted to the 50-over format.

"Considering the minimal experience some of the girls have had in the 50-over format, we did well indeed," she said.

"You spend a bit more time in the field than the majority of the girls play in T20.

"To stay up and about like they did in the duration of the fielding innings, and also stay out there with the bat for the duration was really pleasing."

The Raiders' bowling attack proved solid early in the innings by keeping Clarence to 116 in the first 20 overs. Webster hoped her side would be able to limit New Town across the full 50, with a wicket-heavy start imperative. "We were always under the impression that early wickets are key," she said.

"Especially against Clarence, Sophie [Parkin, 1-69] and Meg [Radford, 2-45] opened up and bowled really well at the beginning, but again it's about that longer format and trying to back that up and be consistent. It's something we'll hope to improve on and hopefully bring against New Town this week."

This will be the Raiders' last match of 2020 before coming back January 10. Webster said she was proud of how her team had handled the 2020-21 season so far.

"Personally, I've liked the opportunity to play against such a competitive and talented group," she said.

"A lot of the people we go up against have respresented the state if not the country so it's a good test for the girls up North."