Stockton & Northern Districts have claimed the Denis Broad Cup title with a hard-fought 23-run victory over Cardiff Boolaroo in an entertaining T20 Final at National Park, Newcastle.

After winning the toss and electing to bat, Stockton & Northern Districts posted 8/126 from their 20 overs in a competitive final. The innings was anchored by a standout knock of 50 from their number two, who provided stability at the top of the order and ensured the side built a defendable total.

Despite regular wickets falling throughout the innings, key contributions helped push the score past 120. A valuable unbeaten 24 late in the innings added crucial runs, giving Stockton & Northern Districts momentum heading into the innings break.

Cardiff Boolaroo’s bowling attack shared the wickets, with Luke Wahlstedt the most effective, claiming 3 wickets, while Aidan Creer picked up 2. The bowlers did well to restrict the scoring in the middle overs and keep the target within reach.

In reply, Cardiff Boolaroo were unable to build the partnerships required to chase down the target, finishing on 9/103 from their 20 overs. Several batters got starts, with Adam Haworth (23) and Thomas Maher (22) the main contributors, but none were able to convert into a match-defining innings.

Stockton & Northern Districts’ bowlers delivered a disciplined and consistent performance, applying pressure throughout the chase. A four-wicket haul proved decisive in breaking the back of Cardiff Boolaroo’s innings, while strong support from the rest of the attack ensured the run rate remained in check.

The victory caps off a strong campaign for Stockton & Northern Districts, with the side holding their nerve in the final to secure the Denis Broad Cup and finish the season on a high.