Butler hits 94 in the heat
SIX weeks into his four-month break in Perth, Josh Butler is making big runs and feeling the heat for Bedford Morley CC in first grade state cricket.
Butler, 21, has returned to the birthplace of his father, former Cobo all-rounder Paul, for an extended stay and after a couple of trial games in the lower ranks was soon elevated into the Bedford Morley side playing in the strong Western Australian Suburban Turf competition.
Last weekend the Guernsey player, who is opening the innings, braved 37C temperatures in rushing Bedford Morley to an important three-wicket win as they battled to pull away from the foot of the table.
After missing out in the first innings – 4 from 22 balls faced – he returned the following weekend to smash nine fours and three sixes to totally dominate the run chase, which saw his new side reach their 151 target in 20 overs, seven wickets down.
Previously, he had endured a baptism of fire in the two-day game against league leaders Murdoch University Melville, who have a strong pace attack and had Butler’s new side reeling at 5 for 4.
Butler, batting at five on his first-team debut, dug in and in a small way played a key role as Bedford Morley recovered well to 215 all out.
Butler, who faced 32 deliveries for his 13, helped ease Bedford Morley’s situation with century-maker Dahiya.
The young Guernseyman, who returns to the island in February, is enjoying a weekend off this week as he joins Sarnian travellers Ben Fitchet, Jordon Martel and Matt Breban at the Third Ashes Test at the Waca.
Meanwhile, fellow Guernsey batsman Tom Nightingale has been in action for Greta CC in Victoria, so far making a top score of 23 batting at No. 6.
