By Dillon Shelley
IN an exhilarating display of cricket, Kyabram triumphed over Mooroopna to clinch the 2023-24 Cricket Shepparton Haisman Shield grand final. The match, held on a spectacular wicket at the Katandra Recreation Reserve, saw Kyabram successfully defend 159 against Mooroopna in a contest that had spectators on the edge of their seats.
The game was not without its dramatic moments. On day one, Kyabram’s Billy McLay stood out with a composed knock of 51 off 169 balls, the only player to reach a milestone knock during the game. His steady performance provided the backbone Kyabram needed to post a respectable score.
Finishing the first day at 6-34, Mooroopna has a mountain to climb and Nick Breslin and Brodie McDonald mounted a spirited fightback, but Kyabram’s Angus McKenzie broke their stand. The subsequent collapse saw Mooroopna lose their final three wickets for just 12 runs, paving the way for Kyabram’s victory.
Charlie McLay, who contributed a spell of 5-30 and a handy 22-run knock, was awarded the Greg Luscombe Medal for man of the match. His performance, along with the relentless efforts of the entire team, ensured Kyabram’s memorable win, marking the end of a fairytale season for the club.
