Newcastle have been crowned O50 Hamman Cup champions for the 5th time after a hard-fought victory over Thornton Thunder at No.1 Sportsground.

Thornton Thunder won the toss and elected to bat first, posting a competitive 7/206 from their 40 overs on a good batting surface.

The Thunder innings was built around several solid contributions, with Chris Dickson leading the way with an attacking 35 off 22 balls, while Michael Benhard (30) and Troy Dunn (23) also chipped in. Late runs from the lower order helped Thornton push past the 200 mark.

For Newcastle, the bowling effort was shared, with Mark Tranter (3/30) the standout, well supported by Andrew Emery (2/34) and Stephen Leathley (2/29), ensuring the Thunder were kept in check through the middle overs.

In reply, Newcastle paced the chase superbly, reaching the target at 8/208 in 38.1 overs.

The innings was anchored by a commanding performance from Stephen Mace, who remained unbeaten on 73, guiding the chase with composure and intent. He found key support from Grant Atherton (35) and Chris Walker (22), keeping Newcastle in control despite regular wickets falling.

Thornton fought hard with the ball, with Jason Lambert (2/21) and Adam Lowe (2/32_ applying pressure, but Newcastle’s depth and experience proved decisive in the closing stages as they crossed the line with just under two overs to spare.

The match was a fitting finale to the O50 Hamman Cup, played in excellent spirit. Congratulations to Newcastle on a well-earned premiership and to Thornton Thunder on a strong and competitive campaign.

Player of the Match was Steve Mace for Newcastle after his match-winning innings, while Jason Lambert was Thornton Thunder’s standout performer.

In the Plate Final at Robins Oval, Hunter defeated Maitland City United. Hunter made 5/159 and then bowled Maitland out for 149 to win by 10 runs.