Congratulations to Merewether District Cricket Club, Royce McCormack Cup Champions for Season 24/25!
Merewether claimed victory over Stockton in a thrilling Royce McCormack Cup grand final today, securing the title with a 19-run win. The defeat marked a tough day for Stockton, who had earlier fallen short in the Tom Locker Cup final. An amazing effort to have both top grades in the big dance!
Merewether, opting to bat first, posted a competitive total of 209, with captain Jordi Van Kemenade leading from the front. Van Kemenade remained unbeaten on 40 off 34 balls, anchoring the innings as the other key contributions came from Luke Hitchcock (37 off 47 balls), Jeremy Smith (28 off 50 balls), and Chad Mayo (28 off 52 balls). The total was largely built on steady partnerships, though Stockton’s bowlers kept the pressure on. Lincoln Melmeth (2-30 from 7 overs) and Lachlan Brown (2-25 from 5 overs) were the pick of the attack, each taking two wickets to slow the Merewether scoring.
In reply, Stockton mounted a determined chase, led by a dynamic 66 from Keith Moody off 60 balls. Moody’s powerful stroke play was the highlight of Stockton’s innings, as he kept the chase on track. Jamie Larsen offered valuable support with 43 off 66 balls. Benjamin Whitty (21 from 28 balls) and Lucas Sargent (19 from 32 balls) also did their bit to assist Stockton’s batting innings. Merewether’s fielders were outstanding, with captain Van Kemenade proving invaluable. Not only did he top score with the bat, but he also took three catches and executed a brilliant run out to shift momentum in his side’s favor.
Harry Cornwell was key with the ball for Merewether, finishing with three wickets (3-44 from 8 overs), with Tom White taking two wickets (2-37 from 7 overs). Stockton’s innings came to an abrupt halt in the 37th over, all out for 190, handing Merewether the trophy.
It was a day to remember for Merewether, who put together a disciplined all-round performance to clinch the title. Van Kemenade’s leadership, both with bat and in the field, was instrumental, while Cornwell’s vital wickets and the clinical fielding display ensured Stockton were never able to get fully on top.
The victory marked a fitting climax to an exciting grand final, where Merewether’s depth and composure ultimately triumphed over a spirited Stockton side.
Rippit Player of the Match went to Keith Moody.
