At 14 years of age, Sam Van Der Zalm may be the youngest player to score a century in West Gippsland Premier Cricket. 43409 Picture: Garry HoweBy Gavin Staindl
THE word around West Gippsland Cricket Association is that he may be the youngest player to score a ton in premier cricket but Nar Nar Goon/Maryknoll youngster Sam Van Der Zalm is remaining modest about his achievement.
14-year-old Van Der Zalm made 105 and put on a 150-run partnership with Craig Lewis (67 not out) to lead Nar Nar Goon/Maryknoll to an unlikely four-wicket win over Beaconsfield at Nar Nar Goon Rec Reserve.
The Year 9 student from Drouin Secondary school was modest in his efforts but nevertheless happy with his achievement.
“It feels good … it was definitely a good day,” Van Der Zalm said.
“I thought I was on 80 or something then I nicked one through the slips. Fortunately no-one was fielding there and the crowd went up and started cheering.
“I didn’t know what was happening and I just went crazy,” Van Der Zalm said.
Van Der Zalm arrived at the crease with Nar Nar Goon/Maryknoll flailing at 4/91 and needing 187 runs for victory.
Along with Lewis, Van Der Zalm saw off eight different Beconsfield bowlers before he was given out lbw for 105. But at 5/241 Van Der Zalm had taken his team from a losing situation to set up Nar Nar Goon/Maryknoll’s fourth win.
But Van Der Zalm was quick to glide some of the praise towards his team-mates.
“The boys bowled well all last week and it (the win) was just a good team effort,” Van Der Zalm said.
A proud father, Justin Van Der Zalm was watching from the boundary line for the whole innings.
“It was a big day of my life … If there was ever a moment where I am living vicariously through him, it was then,” Van Der Zalm said.
Van Der Zalm said it was a great day for the family and a great day for the club.
“He and Chrisy Lew (Lewis) were the match-winners on the day… it was a very good thing for the club.
“I may have even shed a tear,” Van Der Zalm proudly recalls.
