Lucknow and Wy Yung will clash in the 2025/26 Bairnsdale Cricket Association under-16 grand final at Hudson Alvin Oval on Monday from 10am.
The Magpies finished the season as minor premiers, suffering just one loss — a round 15 defeat to the Tigers at Bullumwaal Road. They progressed to the grand final untested, after their semi-final against Lindenow South Glenaladale at Hudson Alvin was abandoned due to inclement weather on Friday.
Lucknow boasts some of the competition’s most promising talent, including skipper Oakley Hughes, Tate Aumann, Thinley Namgyel, Fletcher Watt and Darcy Johnson.
Wy Yung secured its spot in the decider with a thrilling chase of second-ranked Paynesville’s total of 97, reaching the target in 19 overs for the loss of six wickets at AJ Freeman Reserve. The Gulls were bowled out on the final delivery of their 25-over allocation, with Liam Richards (36) and Jack Matthews (20) leading the scoring. Noah Capes (3/12), Angus Durie (2/15) and Nicholas O’Kelly (2/15) impressed with the ball for Wy Yung.
Early runs from Noah Mathers (27) and Jonah Linford (21) set Wy Yung on course, while a match-winning middle-order knock from O’Kelly (25) sealed the win. Aidan Souiller (2/16) was the only multiple-wicket taker for Paynesville.
Lucknow enter the grand final as favourites, but the Tigers will take confidence from their earlier victory over the Magpies in round 15.
