Blues batsman Liam Bayliss cracked 113 runs not-out, a record for local club cricket since the introduction of the modified nine-a-side junior format in recent seasons. Batting first, the Blues Royals were on the ropes with five wickets gone for just 42 runs, courtesy of admirable bowling from the Chev side.

But that all changed when Bayliss took to the crease and hit the compulsory retirement score of 30. However with most of his team mates falling, Bayliss was entitled to return to the crease and bat indefinitely for the remainder of the 30-over innings allocation.

By the end of the innings he had whacked 18 fours and three sixes across every section of the boundary. He was well supported by Noah Fitzroy who finished on 40. The Blues’ final score was 235. Eager to capitalise on the batting performance, the Blues got down to business quickly with the ball.

Opening bowler Ben McWilliams took two wickets in his second over. Mitchell Bayliss and Finn O’Connor both returned figures of 1-0 while Jack Baldwin managed 1-2. Chevalier was all out for 89. Bowral Blues Royal coach Brian Martin said the performance by Bayliss was something special.

“Liam loves his cricket and is a delight to have at this club,” Martin said.