An exciting battle awaits in the final round of the Rarotonga Cricket Club men’s competition this afternoon at Turangi Oval.

Undefeated Turangi and Arorangi Redbacks will be battling for the top spot in the men’s competition this afternoon.

The two teams have enjoyed a grand season so far, winning all their weekly matches.

The home side Turangi are the defending champions and will enter the pitch as favourites.

The Redbacks will be aiming to complete their fairytale run in the preliminary round with yet another win in the competition.

Last week they defeated Tupapa K-11 in the final over after some superb fielding and bowling in the second innings.
Against Tupapa K-11, the Redbacks batted first and scored 160 runs. In reply, Tupapa K-11 started the run chase well with their top four batsmen scoring 112 runs between them.

However a batting collapse from number five to 11 including the likes of veterans Ray Roumanu and Davis Teinaki and some brilliant bowling and fielding from the hosts gave back the game to Arorangi. 

Tupapa K-11 lost to Arorangi in the last over after being bowled all out for 152 runs with only eight runs short of the Arorangi total. 

Davis Teinaki of Cook Islands Cricket said: ‘Turangi versus Arorangi match will decide who will top the men’s point table with both teams unbeaten on 24 points each during the round robin.”

“Turangi the place to be this Saturday.”

In the women’s match which starts at 12.30pm, a win against Arorangi will help Turangi secure their top spot.

“Turangi so far is leading the women’s competition. A win will secure them a place at the top of the women’s point table. Arorangi also need to win this match to have a chance for a place at the top four playoffs. Four women’s teams vying for a top four spot this Saturday.”

In the other women’s matches Nikao will host Tupapa at Nikao Field while TKV will battle Muri at the Happy Valley.

In the men’s matches, Matavera will take on Tupapa K-11 at Matavera Field.

“Nikao is sitting on third spot with 16 points while Tupapa K-11 Muia Boys need to win this Saturday against Matavera to secure them a spot at the top four playoffs.”

The men’s matches start at 3pm.