SOUTH Coast duo Matthew Gilkes and Tom Engelbrecht’s ACT/NSW Country side made it four wins on the trot to open their under 19 national championships in Tasmania on Sunday.
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After an opening round draw against South Australia and comprehensive wins against Northern Territory, Victoria Metro and the Cricket Australia XI, the pair’s team defeated hosts Tasmania by six wickets at Windsor Park, Tasmania.
The hosts elected to bat first, making 221 from their 50 overs.
Former Ulladulla United all-rounder Engelbrecht bowled hard for little reward, finished with 0/37 from his nine overs, while Gilkes, another Ulladulla product, affected one run-out.
In reply, Gilkes opened the batting and made a handy 43 from 52 balls.
His opening partnership of 104 with Blake Nikitaras (47) laid the platform for Jason Sangha (62) to steer ACT/NSW Country to victory.
Engelbrecht was at the crease when the winning runs were scored, managing eight from six deliveries.
The team will next play Western Australia on Tuesday at Lindisfarne Oval in the qualifying final.