The two Vernon brothers are among the most outstanding cricketers in the Gisborne District Cricket Association, and it’s no surprise to see runs flow when they are at the crease.
Making centuries is always a possibility when they bat for Gisborne in McIntyre Cup matches, and vice-captain and opening bat Riley Vernon rose to the occasion in superb fashion, spending Saturday afternoon ensuring his side had a huge total on the board.
He finished 150 not out (13 fours, three sixes) from 138 deliveries.
And just as well, as he watched fellow opener Spencer Jones and his captain Jarryd Vernon dismissed by Broadford speedster Nathan Woods in successive deliveries to make it two wickets for no runs!
Maybe Riley thought about the superb 148 he made against Woodend in April, 2024 as he embarked on a rescue mission.
In company with the in-form Matt Barake, a third-wicket partnership of 114 with Riley playing an array of strokes at Harley Hammond Reserve, and Gisborne was back on an even keel.
Riley enjoys making runs, and more runs, and has played cricket in India and England (twice) to further his young career.
He was thrilled to win the Sullivan Medal for the best player in the GDCA last season, emulating his older brother.
Gisborne finished up scoring 8/286 c.c. against Broadford. Barake 48 and Warren Kelly 41 were fine contributors.
Broadford batters struggled against Gisborne’s attack, and were dismissed for 114 from 36.2 overs.
Paceman Jay King collected three wickets, and Jarrod Catania and Leigh Brennan each two for the reigning premiers.
