BDCA 2023: Family affair in Marist fifth grade’s win over Rising Stars

Saturday’s fifth grade grand final between Marist and Rising Stars at Forrest Park West started in routine fashion for Daniel and Finn Marshall.

Finn, a rising teenage bowler, cooled his jets in the pavilion alongside Blues teammates, while his father Daniel went out to bat.

However, this stint at the crease was less than ideal, when he was forced to retire hurt after 17 balls due to a serious hamstring injury.

“Seeing dad injured wasn’t great — as I know how much he was looking forward to the game all week,” Finn said.

“He was also one of the main reasons why we made the grand final.

“When dad came off, he was in considerable pain, but wanted to get back out there. We knew as a team that wouldn’t happen, as he could barely move.”

Needing to help defend 183, Finn stepped up to claim 5-32 off eight overs, which decimated the visitors for 134.

Aside from crediting senior spinners Cory Fitt, Brayden Clarke and Josh Bradbury for taking time out to give him advice, Finn was quick to acknowledge his teammates for always believing in him.

“I know my role is to be attacking with the ball,” Finn said.

“And the leadership group (Glenn Buck, Justin Lynn and Julian Bradbury) give me all the support in terms of setting different plans and calming myself down.

“I’d also like to thank my dad for taking me to every game and I loved playing alongside him throughout the year.”