The Lakers returned from their bye in Cricket Shepparton’s Haisman Shield to wreak havoc against Mooroopna, fashioning a blistering victory against last season’s grand finalist.
Mooroopna is yet to recapture the dizzying form that landed it in the 2023-24 decider, and with two-day cricket now about to steam ahead, there is still time for the side to crack on when the whites come out.
But on Saturday, the Lakers had the safety off after winning the toss and electing to bat on their home track.
Mooroopna’s mentor, Henry Barrow, won the early sparring as he saw off opposition playing coach Zac Winter-Irving in the second over for four.
While it was the only speck of joy the visitors tasted in the first hour or so, the next cries of howzat came only moments apart.
Mitch Winter-Irving looked poised for a half-century, but was outfoxed by young Englishman Ethan Baker five runs shy and, one ball later, James Wilson was off to the sheds to join him.
Cue Mark Nolan.
Instead of backing off and playing the safe option against a bowler on a hat-trick, the experienced all-rounder crashed one to the ropes to kick off a mini-stand forged between brothers.
While the Winter-Irvings didn’t share the middle at all, the Nolans sure did as opener Luke carried his bat with 67 not out, while his sibling — and skipper — Mark chimed in with a handy 19-run cameo.
Tom Barnes’ contribution of 26 in at six aided the Lakers to 6-183 from their 45 overs, with Jack Gaskill’s 3-52 and Baker’s 2-33 standing out on the bowling front.
Unfortunately, that was about as good as it got for the travellers as Nagambie managed to lock it down at home and leave Mooroopna stranded, far from within striking distance of victory.
Only Ben Woods (22) and Brodie McDonald (19) ventured into double digits for the visiting side as Mark Nolan was at his destructive best, claiming 4-7 off 5.3 overs in a wizardous spell that left Mooroopna all out for 76.
Nagambie will look to build on its flawless record when taking on Shepparton Youth Club United in upcoming red-ball action, while Mooroopna has the week off to assess before its next game, which also happens to be against United.
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