New Zealand had another shy in a World Cup Semi-Final this weekend, but the old bogey came back to haunt us as the 'GREYCAPS' contested the inaugural Over 50s World Cup knockout in South Africa.

Played in front of a large crowd in beautiful Western Province, CD Alumnus and Central Stags cap 181 DEAN ASKEW was one of the several in the squad with CD connections or former first-class cricketers for other teams.

At 60 years young, Askew headed into the Semi-Final against South Africa as one of the tournament's top bowlers with eight wickets at just 8.38.

For those who don't know Dean - now a property consultant in Auckland, he played 19 first-class and seven List A one-day games for the Stags in the 1990s, as a tall right-arm seamer.

The ageless paceman and his teammates had a frustrating wait to get on the park for the knockout in front of a big home crowd, with rain delaying the game that was eventually reduced to 27 overs per side.

New Zealand Over 50 posted 156/9 - with number 11 batsman Askew contributing a six before grabbing two of the four South African wickets to fall.

But it wasn't to be, South Africa chasing down the total with one and a half overs to spare.

New Zealand had played superbly to reach the top four and have a chance of nabbing the bronze medal when they play off against USA in the 3v4 Final, while South Africa and England will meet in the Final.

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Article added: Sunday 19 March 2023