Reader Joshua Botha shares the story of a big moment in the life of any batsman, scoring his first century … and how Barry Richards helped him get there.

The day I scored my first 100 was amazing. Everything just came together in the last match of the first term when our Woodridge Prep U13A team played Herbert Hurd U13As on the 10th of March 2018.

I was running well between the wickets, connected the ball nicely and felt confident to take on the bowlers.

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We won the toss and chose to bat first. I came in at number 3 and scored 138 not out off 141 balls to help our team to a total of 323 for 7 off our 50 overs.

Putters scored his first 50 and Taylor got another knock in the 40s.

We then bowled and fielded well, resulting in having Herbert Hurd all out for 143 from 29 overs. Bukho, our most prolific wicket-taker this year, got his first five-wicket haul at Woodridge.

Part of what made the day special was that Barry Richards signed my bat the night before. Perhaps some of his talent went across with the ink! My family were also there to share the memorable day.

I have just ended my Prep cricket career with recognition (small bats with a plaque) for four 50s and the 100. The 138 not out also helped earn me the award for best cricketer and best sporting performance.

The school presents a new bat for 100s: hope that the B&S limited series (Harrow size) will be used to score another 100 when I go up to the College in 2019 … or maybe the Kratos Pink bat.

– Joshua Botha (14)

Photo: Ryan Pierse – CA/Cricket Australia/Getty Images