Batting first on its home turf at Leckie Park, the Redbacks’ season could not have gotten off to a worse start, with openers James Meggitt and Jordan Ferrier dismissed for ducks.
It was a perfect start for Puckapunyal, who earned its place in the SDCA’s top grade after defeating Yea by nine wickets in last year’s grand final.
After a disastrous start, Alexandra captain William Ashton and Vinu Hewage steadied the ship to lead the Redbacks to 2-43 before Ashton was dismissed for 13.
With wickets falling all around him, Hewage played a marvellous innings of 57, including eight fours, as the Redbacks crawled to 105 from their 20 overs.
Madison Albers was among the best bowlers for Puckapunyal, with figures of 1-14 from four overs.
The Redbacks strangled the visitors’ chase with tight, consistent bowling, ensuring Puckapunyal never really got close to an opening-round win.
In the end, Puckapunyal fell short by 25 runs, with Alexandra captain William Ashton (2-8) and James Megitt (1-4) among the best bowlers for the hosts.
Next, Puckapunyal will travel to Chittick Park to take on Seymour, while Alexandra will face Pyalong at Pyalong Recreational Reserve.
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