uThungulu slay mighty Crusaders

EUGENE Zwart played a powerful innings of 49 not out to help RH Construction uThungulu to a one wicket victory over unbeaten Crusaders in a Castle Premier cricket clash at Addison Park on Sunday.

It was a hair-raising performance. but one that saw the home side bowling in the right areas, putting the hard work in the field and everyone contributing their share with the willow in hand.

League toppers Crusaders won the toss and elected to bat first, reaching 185 before being bowled out in the 48th over.

G Oldfield (57) and B Williams (47) top scored.

Spinner Ryan Smith was the leading man with ball in hand, ending with figures of 4/39 in 7.5 overs.

Needing just 3.7 runs per over, the home side started chasing down the score when the heavens opened up.

To add pressure to the proceedings, the local lads would have lost had the Duckworth Lewis system entered the equation.

To the relief of the local supporters and team, the rain stopped and play continued.

The chase was going well, but losing wickets at crucial times kept Crusaders in the hunt.

A 54-run partnership off 73 balls between Gary Park and Neill Jordan brought a sparkle of hope back for the home team.

With just 19 runs short of victory, No 11 batsmen Ryan Smith made his way out to the crease with in-form batsman Eugene Zwart at the other end.

The two batted superbly together with 6 runs needed for victory off the last over.

The pair managed to cross the line with three balls to spare, pulling off a sensational victory over the talented and well-balanced Crusaders outfit.

uThungulu will take on Pinetown on Sunday at Lahee Park 1 in their next fixture.