Joseph Price has paid tribute to partner Raani Bennett the only way he knows how.
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Less than a week after the tragic death of Ms Bennett nearby their Adamstown home, Mr Price played cricket in the Newcastle first grade competition and scored a match-winning century for Wests.
Mr Price, a former NSW Country representative, captured a wicket with his first delivery at Harker Oval on Saturday before opening the batting and making 103 not out from just 68 balls.
The last of his six sixes brought up the hundred, secured victory against Belmont (9-159) inside 18 overs and booked Wests a place in the Tom Locker Cup one-day final later this month.
"I don't know what to say, it's the only way I know to pay my respects to my amazing partner Raani and mother to our child Willow," Mr Price said.
Mr Price expressed heartfelt thanks to those who have helped support him and daughter Willow.
"It's been so overwhelming to have so many people take time to say so many nice things about Raani and what a wonderful person she is," he said.
Wests president Michael McEntyre said Mr Price was given the option not to play, but he decided on Saturday morning to have a game.
Mr McEntyre described it as a "very emotional day".
A minute's silence was held for Ms Bennett before the fixture and players wore black armbands.
Mr Price's Belmont opponents also delivered a bunch of flowers to the ground.
"Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with you and your family at this tragic time. Love from all your mates and everyone at Belmont Cricket Club," the accompanying card said.
Belmont captain Marcus Hainsworth added: "It really puts life into perspective".
"At the end of the day we just play a game of cricket. It was good to see him [Mr Price] do well and for a small part of the day he had a smile on his face."
Tributes for Ms Bennett have continued to flow on social media following the sudden loss.
Her funeral will be held at Newcastle Memorial Park in Beresfield on Friday from 10:30am. Mr Price has invited those attending to wear colourful clothes in honour of Ms Bennett.
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