28/04/2026
Our annual Turf Wicket deck post‑season renovation has recently been completed, With favourable autumn weather conditions, it’s great to see how well it has “bounced” back in just two weeks. The wicket will now have the winter months to mature in readiness for the 2026–27 season.
A big shout‑out to Adam Thorne and his experienced team from Melbourne‑based Grass Up Sports Turf Management. The renovation included scarifying the entire square, top‑dressing, and a laser‑levelling process. Two Bulka bags of quality black clay soil, supplied by Michael from Northfield Soil (Dunkeld), were used.
We have utilised Adam every post‑season since our Turf Wicket facilities were established. His workmanship is of the highest quality, and he’s a great bloke to deal with.
A quality turf facility doesn’t just happen, though.
The Purnim Recreation Reserve and Moyne Shire have been fantastic partners in helping us originally establish our turf facilities—a mandatory WMDCA requirement for the Raiders’ promotion to top‑tier Premier Division 1 for the 2022–23 season.
We also acknowledge our tireless volunteer curators, Sixer and Mick. Their attention to detail and the countless hours they contribute are incredible. They will never seek accolades or the limelight, but a massive thank you to you both for everything you do. Their mantra has never changed from day one - regardless of whether it’s a T20, one‑day or two‑day fixture, replicate similar conditions for both teams. There’s always a little something early for the bowlers, then it flattens out for batting before giving the spinners their opportunity. Overall, that’s exactly how turf cricket should be played: a true contest of bat versus ball.
Overall statistics from combined 2025–26 Premier and Division 2 Henderson Oval turf fixtures were 5,753 runs scored for 214 wickets at an average of 26 runs per wicket. Notable batting performances included:
Jimmy Elford (157 & 121), Luke Smith (135), Ed Taylor (109 & 99), Tim Ludeman (106 & 101), Theo Opperman (104), and Jacob Fishwick (100).
Finally, in consultation with Andrew and Jonathon from Purnim‑based Notman Pasture Seeds, we are currently reviewing maintenance options and potential upgrades to the oval surface.