tasmedia.org

The inaugural Climate Change Cup brought the thrill of limited overs cricket to Parliament House lawns today. Despite a valiant innings from the Florentine and some superb slogging by the Denison, Tasmania's Forests were bowled out a few runs short of the target set by a determined Forces of Darkness. Lennon perplexed the Forests with some incredible spin and scored several wickets cheaply. O'Connor showed his skill with the willow to make an unbeaten century which put the 'Climate Criminals' in a strong position after electing to bat.

The best bowlers for Tasmania's Forests were Wedge and Blue Tier, each taking three wickets. The Forces of Darkness were clearly the superior side with the bat, however they were let down in the field, particularly by Garrett who dropped several catches. The highlight of the match was a last-ditch effort by the Denison who hit the Darkness bowlers for six several times in the closing overs.

Rain threatened to prevent play but typical Hobart cricketing weather ensued with sunshine alternating with light drizzle. Match organisers, 'Still Wild, Still Threatened' were pleased with the crowd, which comprised many interstate visitors who were passing by Parliament.

Commentator Ula Majewski reported "the old growth forests of the Weld, Styx and Upper Florentine valleys store massive amounts of carbon."

"It is an environmentally criminal act to continue decimating these irreplaceable ecosystems," she said. "Protecting Tasmania's ancient forests is a simple, cheap and effective climate change solution."