Mooroopna secured back-to-back wins in the Haisman Shield off the back of a convincing 39-run win against Waaia on Saturday.
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And it was a fresh face for the Cats that helped secure the club's second win of the Cricket Shepparton A-grade season.
Shoaib Shaikh blasted 61 at first drop to lead Mooroopna to 8-236 on its home deck at John Gray Oval in the round three encounter.
Waaia's Sebastian Moore (3-68) was the only multiple wicket-taker for the away side and collected the prized wicket of Shaikh.
But as well as Shaikh batted, Mooroopna's bowlers Aaron DiFede (2-14) and Bailey McDonald (2-27) were just as good, as they tied down Waaia's batsmen.
Two classy run outs were the icing on the cake for the home side, as they dismissed the Bombers for 197.
Waaia's Brayden Carey (54 runs) fought bravely and cracked a half-century, while Mitch Cleeland (46) gave valuable support.
“It was a really good game of cricket,” Mooroopna captain Sam O'Brien said.
“Waaia put up a strong fight, as we thought they would.
“Full credit to our boys, they bowled and batted well and got us over the line.”
Shaikh combined well with Brady Mulcahy (37) and Jake Wright (47) to register a dependable total against the Bombers.
The debutant showcased his impressive cricket abilities - with 10 boundaries with three sixes - that are no doubt set to help improve Mooroopna's credentials this season.
“He was fantastic for us,” O'Brien said.
“He had some nerves early on, but he summed up the situation really well and batted strongly.
“We're extremely lucky to have Shoaib playing for us.
“He's a super talented player and he's played some really high-level of cricket and we can't wait to see him continue to play for the club.”
THE GAME
Mooroopna 8-236 (Shoaib Shaikh 61, Jake Wright 47, Sebastian Moore 3-68) def
Shoaib Shaikh (Mooroopna): What a debut from Mooroopna's newest player. The 31-year-old was damaging in his first match at the Cattery, hitting 10 boundaries at first-drop. Shaikh looks set to be a handy asset and is only going to improve with match experience.
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