Winners of the regional Gillette Cup

In the eagerly awaited final, St Paul's Collegiate School faced Tauranga Boys' College emerging victorious from their respective pools.

St Paul's won the toss and opted to take the batting crease. The early exchanges saw St Paul's showcasing their intent with a flurry of boundaries but the momentum was disrupted by the loss of Finlay Bayne with just nine runs on the board. However resilient batting performances from Leyton Birch (70) and Campbell Boyd (43) reignited hope with a commendable 70-run partnership 

Despite the earlier setback, St Paul's found stability through Leyton's partnership with Liam Fisher (42). The match took a decisive turn in our favour when Max Makeham (52) seized control, peppering the boundary with eight boundaries. Lucas Hale added crucial runs scoring 20 from just 10 deliveries. 

With a final surge, St Paul's posted an imposing total of 250 runs for the loss of only five wickets

In response, Tauranga Boys' began their innings in a similar vein, suffering an early setback with the loss of a wicket. Finn Bell emerged as the chief tormentor claiming two crucial scalps and finishing with impressive figures of three wickets for just 22 runs. St Paul's maintained pressure with regular breakthroughs, as most bowlers chipped in with a wicket each while keeping the run rate in check.

Encouraged by the unwavering support of their fans St Paul's remained focused and disciplined ultimately securing a well-deserved victory.

The St Paul's First XI Cricket won by 121 runs taking home the Gillette Cup. The team will represent the Northern Districts at the upcoming NZC Nationals in mid-December 2024. This is the fifth time St Paul's has had the right to represent the region with the first time being 1998.

Written by Mr Rameka