After scoring just six runs from the first two A-grade games of the season, Wood returned to form in Thursday’s Goulburn Murray Cricket Twenty20 opener against Bamawm Lockington United.
The returning batsman struck 48 from 31 balls as Echuca chased down BLU’s total of 124 to win by five wickets.
After losing BJ Moyle and Ben Fulford for under 20, Wood combined with one-day captain Matt Hinks (35 runs off 45 balls) to give their side the perfect start to the competition.
Hinks said he was pleased to see his teammates get some reward after a frustrating start to the season.
“We sent him out there early because we know what Tim can bring to our side,” he said.
“What was really impressive was the way he was able to keep his strike rate over 100 even when he was getting set.
“Once he had his eye in, I don’t think Tim mistimed too many shots. It was a pleasure to be out there with him.”
Hinks said he was thrilled to have the opportunity to get out on the ground and play another format of the game he loves.
“We’re very lucky to be playing cricket this season,” he said.
“I think everyone in the community is really appreciating the social side of the game as well because it’s something we have missed for a large part of the year.
“Now hopefully we can keep winning and develop a strong winning culture at Echuca.”
For BLU, Kyle Humphrys performed strongly after scoring a half-century before he was eventually dismissed by Nick Dolan, who claimed two wickets for the visitors.
Rylea Jones also took two wickets for Echuca.
Amila Gunathilaka and Shannon Bish took two scalps of their own for BLU.
In the other game played last Thursday, Rochester got the better of Kyabram Fire Brigade in the two sides’ first meeting since last season’s A-grade grand final.
After winning the toss and electing to bat, Fire Brigade set the visitors 136 for victory.
Rochy opener Angus Martin put his side in a strong position for victory after reaching 50.
Moama’s game against Echuca South in the opening round has been re-scheduled for December 3.
Round 2 fixture
Echuca South v Kyabram Fire Brigade
Rochester v Bamawm Lockington United
Echuca v Moama
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