The first day of the two-day clash had seen the Eagles post a competitive 188, with Hadleigh Sirett anchoring the innings with a patient 50 and support from Brady Black and Benjamin Pedretti.
It was a total that looked modest on paper but proved to be tricky given the disciplined Karramomus attack.
Chasing the target on day two, Karramomus’ innings got off to a shaky start.
Corey Hickford and Dayne Wilson struck early, removing Zavier Davidson and Shane Smith cheaply to leave the hosts at 2-45. From there, the momentum swung back slightly as Mitchell McGrath settled at the crease.
His measured 60 was a masterclass in patience, balancing defence with timely scoring, while Declan Newbound chipped in with a well-timed 28.
But the Eagles’ bowlers never allowed Karramomus to seize the initiative. Grant Hutchins was relentless, finishing with 4-43 in 22 overs, while Hickford (3-47) and Wilson (2-15) shared the bulk of the remaining wickets.
Each time a partnership threatened to develop, a breakthrough arrived.
Lachie Keady’s late flourish of 18 off 20 balls offered a glimmer of hope, but it was too little too late, Karramomus was bowled out for 164, handing the Eagles a 24-run win.
Fielding also proved pivotal for the Eagles.
Talon Wilson, Mitchell Black, Dayne Wilson, Grant Hutchins, and Hadleigh Sirett all took key catches at crucial moments, cutting off potential scoring opportunities and turning pressure into wickets.
It was the combination of tight bowling and sharp fielding that ultimately tipped the scales in their favour.
For Karramomus, there were encouraging signs, particularly from McGrath and Newbound, but the lack of consistent partnerships made chasing even a modest target a challenge.
For the Eagles, the victory highlights their depth and resilience, giving them confidence as the Haisman Shield season continues.
It was a contest that had spectators on the edge of their seats, full of tense moments, gritty batting, and disciplined bowling.
In the end, the Katandra Eagles’ composure under pressure made the difference.
Afterwards, Katandra’s Ben Pedretti spoke of the mood within the camp currently.
He explained that the players are aware that some improvements are needed, although he was left feeling positive following this most recent showing.
“It was one of our more complete games, there was a pretty even contribution with the bat and I thought we bowled really well.
“We stuck to our plans and we were able to execute a couple of things. It was good!
“I think Hadleigh Sirrett (played well) and our opening partnership between Brady Black and Corey .. put us in good stead. It put Karramomus on the back foot a bit, got us off to a bit of a flyer.
“It was always going to be quite interesting seeing how things all played out after losing four or five key players from last year.
“We made some steps with our younger guys and there’s been a lot of improvements.”
THE GAME
Katandra 188 (Hadleigh Sirett 50, Brady Black 33, Ethan Baxter 3-19) def. Karramomus 164 (Mitchell McGrath 60, Declan Newbound 28, Grant Hutchins 4-43)
STAR PLAYER:
Grant Hutchins (Katandra): With a patient line and length all day, Hutchins picked up four crucial wickets to strangle Karramomus’ chase and secure the Eagles’ first-innings victory. His control and consistency made the difference when partnerships threatened to blossom.
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