Riddell Cricket Club won the Jensen Shield grand final on Saturday, adding to optimism about the club’s prospects for the 2026-27 season.
Playing on their home ground, the Bombers dismissed Rupertswood’s quality opening batsmen cheaply, and never relented.
Bruce Marshall batted a long time to top score 18 in a meagre tally of 71, sending Bombers’ supporters into raptures.
Despite losing two wickets early in the run chase, Peter Cashen and Harry Fisher combined for an unbroken third-wicket partnership with the innings lasting 24.5 overs. Every boundary drew loud applause.
Riddell captain Jimmy Taylor said after the match the side had fought hard all season to achieve its aim.
He commended match umpires Doug McDonald and Anthony Johnson.
“The best side won,” Rupertswood captain Bert van den Heuval said, thanking his players for their efforts over the season.
GDCA president Simon Ovenden said the association’s expectations were that Riddell would continue to improve, and eventually become a strong McIntyre Cup participant.
The Bombers hope to field one additional senior side next season.
In reality, the Jensen Cup grand final was between Riddell’s top side and Rupertswood’s third side, with the victory making amends for the Bombers’ defeat in the 2024-25 grand final.
The Riddell club had to organise a working bee to rake up a large amount of loose grass left on the oval after being mown during the week.
