Stockton & Northern Districts Claim Convincing Royce McCormack Cup Victory

Stockton & Northern Districts delivered a polished all-round performance to secure a commanding 129-run win over Waratah-Mayfield in the Royce McCormack Cup at Waratah Oval.

After winning the toss and electing to bat, Stockton & Northern Districts set the tone early, compiling an impressive 7/253 from their 40 overs. The innings was built on depth and consistency, with several players making meaningful contributions.

Benjamin Whitty led the way with a well-constructed 55, anchoring the innings, while Lachlan Hancock added 43 at the top. The middle order ensured the momentum continued, with Ed Williams (42) and Tremayne Small (42) both playing positive hands to push the total beyond 250. Late contributions, including an unbeaten 17 from Paul Kelly, added valuable runs in the closing stages.

Waratah-Mayfield’s bowlers worked hard throughout the innings, with Cameron Claridge the standout performer, finishing with 4 wickets. Nic Bourke also provided support with two key breakthroughs.

Chasing 254 for victory, Waratah-Mayfield faced an uphill battle from the outset. Despite an aggressive 48 from Josh Brackenbury, wickets fell regularly and the innings never gained sustained momentum.

Stockton & Northern Districts’ bowling unit was clinical, led by Lachlan Hancock, who produced an outstanding spell of 4/15 to dismantle the middle order. Hayden Williams provided excellent support with 3 wickets, while Daniel Foster and Lincoln Melmeth also contributed to keep the pressure firmly on the hosts.

The result capped off a dominant performance from Stockton & Northern Districts, with Lachlan Hancock named Player of the Final for his outstanding all-round contribution, combining a crucial 43 runs with a match-winning spell of 4/15.

Pictured below is Stockton Life Member and NDCA Committee Member Paul Robertson with captain Daniel Foster.