ADCA 2025-26: Robinson’s heroics not enough to save depleted Collingwood Park as solid Denmark chase them down

Buddy Robinson’s heroics with the bat were not enough to save Collingwood Park from defeat in the only Albany and Districts Cricket Association A-grade contest to finish on Saturday. With the other matches falling victim to rain and a wet pitch, Denmark overhauled Park’s 155 for a gripping two-wicket win on Turf East in a contest reduced to 35 overs per side. The match came down to the final over youngster Mitchel Otway hit the winning single, to reach the tricky target with one ball to spare. It was a double disappointment for Robinson who was not only on the losing side but was left stranded on 96 when a century beckoned. He was not a happy man as he left the pitch having singlehandedly hauled his side from a disastrous 5-29 to a total which might have been defendable on any other day. His innings was fun to watch and included four sixes which were dispatched to all points of the ground. His 50 came off 60 balls but he accelerated after that, ending on a run-a-ball tally when the Park innings closed, Jackson Davidson edging Lewis Culver to Peter Ross for the Magpies wicketkeeper’s third catch of the day. What support Robinson got came in the shape of Dash Germinario who struck 20 off 40 balls before losing his stumps to Jed Schwarzback. Missing several A-grade regulars, Park’s next best scoring came from 17 extras as they finished all out for 155 in 34 overs. Englishman Culver had a top day with the ball taking 5-27 while Lochlan Otway helped the cause with 3-15 for the Magpies. Campbell Robertson’s 41 off 50 balls topped a solid Magpies response with Schwarzbach starting the ball rolling with a 60-ball 34. Cooper Barlow added 18 and Matt Burton 19 before Ross’ unbeaten 26 made sure the Magpies reached 8-156 as wickets tumbled around him. The crucial contest between Mt Barker and Royals – which should settle who gets the finals’ double chance along with Manypeaks – was called off because of a wet pitch. Railways had scored two runs in their match against Peaks when it was abandoned. A decision on when the games can be played will be made at the ADCA committee meeting on Tuesday. With only one round of fixtures remaining before finals, the only feasible date for the rearrangement seems to be March 8.