With a team formed out of three separate households, there was no doubting the kinship in the Bombers’ ranks as they put in a strong all-round performance to come away with the spoils after defeating Kyabram by 98 runs.
After losing the toss and being sent in to bat, Waaia made the most of its opportunity at Katandra West Primary School, posting a strong total of 211 from 34.4 overs on the back of contributions throughout the line-up.
It was Mark Nichol who set the tone early with a ruthless 44 from just 24 balls, as Gregory Meyland (52) and Hughie Stammers (49) combined to stabilise and gain a foothold in proceedings for their side through the middle overs.
The pair’s partnership proved crucial in lifting Waaia to a commanding total in the grand final showpiece, despite a late flurry of wickets that included a string of run outs.
Kyabram’s bowlers battled on, with Riley Nicholson the pick of the attack with 2-20, while Flynn Burrows, Dylan Lopez and Jonathan Hipwell each claimed a wicket.
Chasing 212 for victory, Kyabram showed some early signs of resistance, with Ethan Hart leading the way with 27 as Riley Nicholson added 19, but regular wickets prevented any real sustained momentum.
Oscar Nichol ultimately proved the difference-maker with the ball as he produced a match-winning spell to finish with 4-24 and break the backbone of Kyabram’s batting order.
He was ably assisted by Gregory Meyland, who claimed 2-5, while Javier Meyland and Porter Meyland also chipped in with important wickets as Waaia’s bowlers maintained control throughout the innings.
Kyabram was eventually bowled out for 113 in 29.5 overs, with Waaia’s fielding also playing a key role, as multiple catches and run outs kept the pressure firmly on.
The result completed a comprehensive performance from the dads and lads of Waaia, as their depth with the bat and ability to remain focused on the job at hand in the field proved decisive in securing premiership glory.
Reflecting on forming part of a grand final winning side, Gregory Meyland’s pride was palpable as he looked back over a day to remember for the family as he won alongside his two sons.
“It’s been a great feeling and I was lucky enough to play with two of my sons, as well as my brother and two cousins,” he said.
“It was a family affair for me, with a great bunch of blokes and young kids.
“It was a good night! I’m feeling the pinch tonight,” he laughed.
“The E-Grade is all about giving kids the opportunity.
“Kyabram were really good and gracious in defeat - it was a really good day of cricket.”
As for youngster Oscar Nichol, he was left suitably impressed with his heroics following what was a virtuoso bowling display.
“There were so many great contributions on the day with Oscar Nichol getting four wickets, setting the game up by getting their best batsman out,” Meyland said.
“His father, Mark Nichol, got us off to a really good start with 44 off 22 and all year we’ve had had a great opening partnership with Mark and Grant Parker.”
As for the important contributions of the Waaia middle order, he expressed his admiration for how all involved made a genuine mark on proceedings in varying ways.
“We lost four quick wickets and Hughie Stammers dug in which was really good, playing a really important knock right in the middle.
“Then we had three or four players sacrifice their wicket, getting run out, trying to get extra runs which was very selfless.“
THE GAME
Waaia 211 (Gregory Meyland 52, Hughie Stammers 49, Mark Nichol 44; Oscar Nichol 4-24, Gregory Meyland 2-5) def. Kyabram 113 (Ethan Hart 27, Riley Nicholson 19; Riley Nicholson 2-20, Dylan Lopez 1-24)
STAR PLAYER:
Oscar Nichol (Waaia): Putting in a match-defining performance with the ball, he claimed 4-24 to break Kyabram’s chase and secure the honours.
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