FORMER Australian international Travis Birt blasted Claremont-Nedlands to a massive One-Day League grand final win over Fremantle on Sunday.
The heavy-hitting left-hander smashed 20 boundaries en route to 149 off just 122 deliveries, guiding his side to 6-304 before his bowlers got to work routing the opposition.
Chasing a big total, the Port Boys were never in the hunt after stumbling to 6-38 before being bowled out for 135 in the 33rd over of the contest held at the WACA.
Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE
Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.
READ NOWWinning the toss and electing to bat, the Tigers had been in early trouble after Jacob Whiteaker was undone by Jamie Heath for nought and Nicholas Hobson was beaten by paceman Jhye Richardson for just four.
But Birt’s rampaging innings from the top of the order, together with support through the middle – Tim David (42 from 61), Chris Brabazon (45 from 55), Bradley Hope (36 from 36) and Matt Kelly (17 from 10) – ensured Claremont-Nedlands entered the break in front of the game.
Richardson, a T20 international after making his debut against Sri Lanka last month, was the best of the Fremantle bowlers with figures of 2-39.
Jarryd McPhee took 2-59 and Jamie Heath 1-49.
Chris Chellew was pumped for 70 runs from nine overs, but he did end Birt’s innings.
In reply, only Ashton Turner found any joy for Fremantle.
Turner, who also debuted at international level against Sri Lanka in February, scored 49 from 48.
David snagged 4-33 for the Tigers as Fremantle were bowled out 170 runs short of a third grand final win for the season.