Nagambie's Kayla Shepherd was a force to be reckoned with last season.
Photo by
Megan Fisher
With bat in hand, there were no two better players in Cricket Shepparton’s inaugural senior women’s competition than Nagambie’s Kayla Shepherd and Shepparton Youth Club United’s Mel Saunders.
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Shepherd topped the run-scoring with 364 at a monstrous average of 121, playing a vital role in the Lakers’ grand final run.
Next was SYCU stalwart Saunders, who saluted a fourth consecutive season over the 200-run mark with 241 through the 2025-26 campaign, averaging almost 50.
Now, after a swashbuckling time at the crease, they are Cricket Shepparton’s sole representatives in the Northern Rivers Team of the Year, which recognises the best players throughout the region’s seven member organisations.
It also places them firmly in contention for the overall Victorian Country Cricket League edition, which is set to be announced on August 9.
"The Northern Rivers Teams of the Year celebrate the outstanding achievements of players from right across our region,” region president Travis Harling said.
“The quality of performances seen throughout the 2025-26 season reflects the strength of our competitions and the continued growth of cricket across Northern Victoria.
“Congratulations to all players selected and we wish them every success as they progress to VCCL consideration."
Mel Saunders is a leader and reliable batter in one for SYCU.
Photo by
Megan Fisher
Shepherd’s selection comes after appearing for Victoria Country at the Australian Country Cricket Championships, a selection itself coming off the back of three half centuries and a ton.
Meanwhile Nathalia’s Abby Favaro also earned a place following a strong campaign with both bat and ball, claiming 24 wickets at a measly average of 4.6 while contributing 174 runs in the Goulburn Murray Cricket competition.
Katamatite’s Christina Roberts has been named among the Northern Rivers’ finest bowlers after snaring 21 wickets, also allowing batters no space with an average of just over six.
Roberts and Favaro are two of six GMC representatives in the side in the 12-player squad.
