NEW South Wales Metro were crowned 2019-20 Under 19 Male national champions after captain Lachlan Hearne’s century set up a 48-run victory over Victoria Country on Thursday in Perth.
Elegant left-hander Hearne, who had five half centuries to his name in the tournament, brought up a breakthrough century from 130 balls when his side needed it most to claim Player of the Final honours.
From a precarious 3-15, Hearne combined with Zeeshan Ahmed (83) in a 166-run partnership to not only resurrect the NSW innings, but set them on course for victory.
After their departure, some late hitting from Sydney Thunder spinner Tanveer Sangha (31 from 17 balls) set Victoria Country a competitive total of 247 to win.
Just as their opponents had, Victoria Country lost early scalps as Liam Marshall delivered a frightening opening spell.
Opener Emerson White remained composed as wickets fell around him, compiling 78 runs and combining with Jonathan D’Rozario (50) in a 73-run stand that put Victoria Country within sight of victory.
But as the required run rate moved above seven per over,l wickets began to tumble, the final five falling for 26 runs to hand NSW Metro the title.
Former Coomealla Wentworth cricketer Kobe Smith (Victoria Country) did not play in the final.
