/ 7 November 1999

GIDLEY RESTORES GRIQUAS PRIDE

MARTYN Gidley gave Griqualand West their first bit of good news in three days as the hosts saw a glimmer of hope after the third day of their Supersport Series match against the Northerns Titans on Saturday.

At stumps, Griquas were still 94 runs behind overall as they reached 240 for four in their second innings, mostly thanks to Gidley’s superb 133 not out, his ninth first class century.

Right from day one, the Titans have dominated and their opening salvo of 562 for seven in the first innings effectively took any chance Griqua’s had of winning.

Griquas resumed on Saturday morning on 175 for eight with Garth Roe and Deon Kruis at the wicket. Thanks to a sparkling 72-run ninth wicket partnership between the two, the first signs of a renewed spirit were beginning to show.

By lunch, Griquas had scored 46 without loss as they began their follow-on innings.

By tea, Griqua’s were still in good shape at 139 for two and although they lost two wickets in the last session — including Finlay Brooker in the last over – at least on Sunday, there may still be a contest.