The Illawarra under-17 representative cricket side has received a massive boost ahead of its do-or-die semi-final this Sunday, with the return of its phenomenal captain and batting prodigy, Blake Cattle.
Record-Breaking Form Returns to the Line-Up
The regular skipper missed his team's heavy qualifying final loss to St George last weekend because he was representing Greater Illawarra at the NSW Senior Country Championships. His absence was keenly felt as Illawarra was bowled out for a meagre 96 runs before St George chased the target down with just one wicket lost.
That defeat ended a remarkable 15-match winning streak for the defending Watson Shield champions, stretching back to the 2023/24 final. However, the competition's top-six format has granted them a second chance, which they aim to seize with their star player back in the fold.
A Batting Average That Demands Attention
Cattle’s statistics in the Watson Shield this season are nothing short of extraordinary. The Keira Lions young gun has amassed 440 runs at a staggering average of 146.67, making him the most formidable batter in the competition.
His form is not limited to junior cricket. While on representative duty, he blasted a century off just 61 balls to steer Greater Illawarra to a T20 victory, proving his class against older opponents. This follows his historic feat in early November, where he scored 236 runs in a club match for Keira, registering what is believed to be the highest individual score on a turf wicket in Cricket Illawarra's 125-year history.
All to Play for in Sunday's Showdown
Illawarra's campaign for a third consecutive Watson Shield final now hinges on their semi-final clash against Manly at Weldon Park this Sunday. The return of their inspirational leader and primary run-scorer transforms the team's prospects.
A victory will book their place in the final, continuing their recent dominance in the competition. The other semi-final will see Fairfield-Liverpool take on St George at Don Dawson Oval, setting the stage for a thrilling finals weekend in NSW junior cricket.
