By JARROD POTTER
TURNING the Turf 3 grand final on its head were Buckley Ridges’ father-son combination Shane and Jono D’Rozario.
The elder D’Rozario is well-known in DDCA circles – having won on the last day in Turf 1 as well as claiming an Alan Wookey Medal in 2006/07.
But the DDCA champion admitted Sunday would be hard to top in his cricket highlights after he celebrated a Turf 3 senior premiership with his 14-year-old son as Buckley Ridges (188) defeated DDCA newcomers Beaconsfield (168).
With the cup under his arm and his son under the other, Shane could not have been happier celebrating the season’s end.
“Was great to see on this great occasion that will live long,” Shane D’Rozario said.
“It’s right up there with winning the Turf 1 flag if not better to share this with my young bloke, so I’m absolutely stoked.”
It could have been a different story without both generations of D’Rozario cricketers writing chapters in the Turf 3 history books over the weekend.
Arriving with the side in disarray on Saturday afternoon – Shane came to the crease at 6/69 and anchored the Buckley Ridges’ fight-back.
He picked the perfect time to get his top score in 2015/16, smashing 74 in tandem with Sojjad Ali (26) before starting a partnership that he will never forget began to grow.
Jono D’Rozario (11) arrived at the crease at eighth drop and united with his dad to put on a memorable 50-run stand.
From one D’Rozario to another, it was Jono’s turn on Sunday to spin the match Buckley Ridges’ way.
The younger D’Rozario worked his way through Beaconsfield’s batting with a 21 sublime leg-spin overs.
He snared 5/56 – including the huge wickets of Brendan Johnson (0), Matt Golding (38) and Mario Perera (25).
“Fantastic mate, fantastic – proud as punch of him and this great club,” Shane D’Rozario said. “It’s been years in the making, but to captain the boys is one thing and to put on a 50-run partnership with the young bloke is awesome.
“For him to come out and get five wickets in the innings as well – words can’t describe it … . I’m the happiest bloke going around at the moment.”
Jono was similarly speechless but wanted to thank his dad for everything he’s done for him on and off the field.
“Terrific, words can’t explain it,” Jono D’Rozario said. “It’s great – to win with these lads – it’s just awesome.
“Just want to thank dad for all the years basically and getting me through the hard times.”
Shane thanked Buckley Ridges and his family – his wife Michelle, son Jono and daughter Shania – for their love and support.
