Sport
28 February, 2024
Club defends grand final 'forfeit'
IN the wake of last Sunday’s under 17 grand final ‘forfeited loss’, Cobden Cricket Club has this week spoke of its disappointment over how the event unfolded.
Having finished on top of the Warrnambool and District League ladder, Cobden headed into the finals series “well aware” that the grand final had been scheduled for last Sunday (Feb 25) but said it was also previously given assurances that should the side win their way through to the grand final, the date was not set in concrete and there would be flexibility around the date.
However, that was not the case – and they were forced to forfeit due to player commitments elsewhere.
“Our girls weren’t unavailable because of social commitments, they had conflicting cricket commitments, including playing Premier cricket,” Cobden Cricket Club president Matthew Hanks said.
“They are all extremely disappointed with the outcome, and justifiably so. We are extremely proud of all our players and are always doing our best to be flexible in terms of game times and days to ensure everyone gets to play as much as possible – and we also do our best to accommodate the needs of other clubs to help develop not only the players but the league itself.”
A letter (featured on this page) was sent from the club to the Warrnambool and District League explaining the situation.
“We sent the letter to explain why we had requested a change in date but all we got in reply, via email, was an apology for a lack of communication and that the league sympathised with our situation.”
Cobden’s under 13 players, who this season combined with Mortlake to enter a team in the junior competition, have also reached the grand final.
And in stark contrast, this grand final – originally scheduled for this Sunday - will now be played over two days to accommodate the request of an opposing club.
“We believe we are extremely flexible and we have always done all we can to promote cricket and all players involved,” Hanks said.
“However, Dennington has said it would have players unavailable due to a basketball tournament in the afternoon so asked to switch it to Saturday and Sunday mornings.
“We have accommodated that request and once again been flexible. It’s all about giving players the experience.”
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