Batting first, the Rhinos posted a competitive total of 159 from their 20 overs.
Jack Tonta’s unlucky streak continued, dismissed for a duck by the bowling of Charlie Hillier to little reaction from the Rams, who had expected his stay at the crease to be brief.
The first innings featured powerful hitting from Brodie Bennett, sharp fielding from Cable Fitzpatrick, and some questionable bowling efforts from Dean Macdonald and Riley Hamilton, keeping the crowd entertained.
The Rams’ chase started in dominant fashion, with Miller Fitzpatrick and Liam Pitts sending the Rhinos' attack to all parts of the ground.
The match appeared to be heading for a comfortable Rams victory until Pitts, on a blistering 79, was given LBW, shifting momentum back to the Rhinos.
Rhinos skipper Mick Barnett met expectations in the most unfortunate way, dismissed first ball to raucous celebrations from his teammates.
The game built to a thrilling finale, with Kai Hillier steaming in to bowl the last over to his brother Charlie, with the Rams needing 13 runs to win.
With seven runs required off the final two balls, Kai held his nerve, sealing a four-run victory for the Rhinos.
The game was well attended by Rhinos and Rams supporters with the bar open and sausage sizzle generously put on by Rhinos and Rams volunteers.
Following the game, Rams president Tony Marshall and Rhinos president Tim Hillier came together to say a few words with Rams’ Liam Pitts awarded the game ball for the Rams while the Rhinos claimed the inaugural trophy with both clubs keen to make the game an annual event to be played again in 2026.
