GRADE MATCHES.

Star (Christchurch), Volume XLIV, Issue 364, 4 March 1932, Page 6

GRADE MATCHES.

Semi-finals to be Resumed To-morrpw, After the excitement of the test match. Christchurch cricketers will have to settle down to grade fixtures again to-morrow, but as the semi-finals have been reached and at least one of the games is in an interesting position, there should be no lack of interest. The games were begun three weeks ago, but rain on one Saturday afternoon and the test match last week delayed the concluding play. Of the semi-finals, that between St Albans and Old Boys is in a position that leaves little hope for the St Albans side, as Old Boys have already established a lead of 67 on the first innings. Moreover, St Albans will be without the services of Page, who is captaining the New Zealand team in Wellington. Some unexpected things happen in cricket, but if the wicket is as good as prospects indicate, St Albans will have to produce something “ out of the box " if they are to snatch victory from defeat. On the other hand, there is every prospect of a close finish in the game between Old Collegians and Sydenham at Sydenham Park. Sydenham batted first, and made the highly respectable total of 272. so that Old Collegians have quite a task in front of them. However, they have shown good batting form in recent matches, and the task is by no means an impossible one. The fight between the batsmen and the Sydenham bowlers should be a good one. Both sides will have all their men available. Of the Riccarton are in a good position against West Christchurch, with a first innings score of 369 for nine wickets to their credit. Lancaster Park appear certain to meet defeat at the hands of East Christchurch. for their first innings produced only 68. while East replied with 253 for nine wickets. Further, Cromb will not be available for the Park side.