Mount Maunganui Clinch Baywide Cup in Commanding Fashion

The Baywide Cup Final at Tauranga Domain, Cadets’ home ground, saw Mount Maunganui Cricket Club claim their 10th title in 18 years with a dominant outright victory. The two-day match highlighted Mount Maunganui’s tactical acumen, exceptional bowling, and composure under pressure as they secured the prestigious trophy.

The final began with a rain-delayed start, reducing the first day’s play to 74 overs. Played on a dry, previously used wicket, the surface began to show significant cracks by Day 2, with unpredictable bounce making batting increasingly challenging. Recognizing the conditions, Mount Maunganui opted for two seamers and four spinners, a decision that would prove decisive.

The final attracted a significant number of supporters, creating an atmosphere that added to the spectacle.

Winning the toss, Mount Maunganui chose to bat first. After an opening stand of 50 between Gus Tustin (30) and Matt Golding (23), the middle order anchored the innings. Seb Heath, in his first season at the club, top-scored with a patient 84 off 186 balls, while Ben Parlane added a crucial 51 batting at No. 7. Despite early challenges on Day 2, Mount Maunganui posted 232 in 97 overs, giving themselves a competitive total to defend.

Cadets began their first innings cautiously but soon found themselves in trouble. Mount Maunganui’s seamers struck early, with Henry Conway dismissing Cadets skipper Andrew Mascall to leave them at 7-1. However, it was the introduction of spinners Pete Drysdale (5-15) and Dale Swan (4-20) that turned the tide.

Cadets, who had passed the 30 run mark for the loss of two wickets at lunch, were bundled out for just 66 in 36.3 overs, giving Mount Maunganui a significant first-innings lead.

With the advantage in hand, Mount skipper Niven Dovey enforced the follow-on. Once again, Cadets were under pressure from the start as Conway struck with the second ball of the innings, dismissing Mascall for the second time in the match. Despite Cadets’ efforts to play aggressively in a bid to force a comeback, Mount’s bowlers remained relentless.

Dale Swan picked up another five-wicket haul (5-32), while Bryn Roberton (3-9) provided excellent support. Cadets were dismissed for 79 in 13.1 overs, sealing an outright victory for Mount Maunganui.

Speaking about the team’s performance, Mount Maunganui skipper Niven Dovey praised his side’s resilience:

"We have had our fair share of adversity through the competition, but the way our guys have responded throughout is a testament to the attitude we have tried to instill into this club. The way our bowlers turned it on in the final shows the class and experience they have. We knew the challenge ahead of us, taking on a very good Cadets team who traditionally play hard, and to see us step up to that level was incredibly satisfying."

Coach Chris Pringle also commended the team:
"I am very proud of the group of players that have been successful in winning the Baywide competition. The team showed a tremendous amount of resolve throughout the competition. They were very well led by Niven Dovey, who showed great character.”

“There were several strong performances when we were put under pressure, and we kept finding the best solutions. I am extremely proud of the senior players and younger brigade, who will all have very bright futures. To bat for the best part of 100 overs showed real steel, and then to take 20 wickets in just over a session of play is really extraordinary."

Mount Maunganui finish the Bay Cup campaign with six wins, two losses, and two draws. The team’s success was built on key contributions from both batters and bowlers:

• Matt Golding: Scored 396 runs at an average of 66.
• Dale Swan: Claimed 22 wickets with consistent performances.
• Pete Drysdale: Contributed as an all-rounder with 259 runs at 43 and 20 wickets.
• Henry Conway: Delivered with the new ball, taking 16 wickets.

The blend of senior players and emerging talent gave Mount Maunganui a balanced edge throughout the competition.

This latest triumph reflects the strength and consistency of the Mount Maunganui squad, further establishing them as a competitive force in Bay of Plenty cricket.