BDCA 2023: Colts stalwart Murray Goodwin blasts 111 off 83 balls as Colts win grand final rematch over Marist

Colts Cricket Club legend Murray Goodwin provided a timely reminder of his batting brilliance on Saturday against Marist at Forrest Park. Making his return BDCA first grade appearance following a suspension incurred during last year’s decider against the Blues, Goodwin, 50, crafted a masterful 111 off 83 balls, during Colts’ 53-run win. This knock was not overly punctuated by aerial onslaughts — instead shots were timed carefully and gaps in the field were punished with ease. Pleasingly for both clubs and association officials, all players fought out the game in positive spirits, with mutual respect uniform across all phases of the contest. Winning the toss and electing to bat, Colts made 6-268 in pleasant conditions. In reply, the Blues gave their best, with Haydn Slodecki (110 off 130 balls) and Brayden Clarke (66 off 93 balls) both putting the home side within striking range as the sun began to set. Cruelly for Marist, their hopes of a victory spiralled following Slodecki’s dismissal, losing 6-14 and being dismissed for 215 — however there were enough positives from both sides throughout the afternoon to indicate they are likely to cross paths in either a preliminary or grand final.