ALLANSFORD opener Tim McDonald was on track for a half-century against Brierly-Christ Church before he stepped on his stumps.
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McDonald has staked his claim for most bizarre dismissal of the season honours after going out “hit wicket” at Allansford Recreation Reserve.
The hard-hitting batsman was on 36 when Bulls spinner Nathan Murphy forced him back into his crease — with fatal consequences.
“Nathan was bowling pretty handy spinners and Tim has gone back and trod on his stumps trying to work him away,” Gators coach Stephen Blacker said.
“He wasn’t too happy, I can assure you of that. He came off with his head down. He wasn’t overly thrilled.”
But his spirits lifted an hour later when Allansford secured its first win of the Warrnambool and District Cricket Association Hopkins conference season.
The Gators restricted the Bulls to 137 and reached 1-143 with five balls to spare, thanks to McDonald and an unbeaten 72 from Gault McCluggage.
Matt Brophy also contributed with 25 at number three. Earlier, Murphy top scored with 36 for the Bulls, while four Gators took two wickets.
Blacker said Allansford was pleased to bounce back after losing to Nirranda in round one.
“We were pretty disappointed with our batting at Nirranda. And it felt like we didn’t click with our bowling until very late,” he said.
“Nirranda should’ve won with four or five overs to spare. We were very lucky we took it as far as we did.
“In this game (against Brierly-Christ Church) we were always in control, but runs on the board, you never know.
“We had plenty of wickets in the shed so if we had to throw them we could’ve.”
afawkes@fairfaxmedia.com.au