Rotorua Central won back to back Lonestar Tauranga T20 Championships when they defeated Element IMF Cadets in the title decider at the Bay Oval at Mount Maunganui on Saturday.
Central took first use of what was an excellent batting strip at Bay of Plenty Cricket's premier ground and got away to a good start. Led by a hard fought 49 runs from skipper Jason Trembath, the Rotorua team set their opponents a target of over seven and a half runs an over in posting 152/8. Vaughan Blanchard, Ben Blackett and Tahir Afridi all reached the twenties, with Ben Christensen the best of the Cadets bowlers taking two wickets for 19 runs.
The Western Bay side made a cracking start to their run chase, however the Central slow bowlers cut down the Cadets momentum. Needing 40 odd runs off the last four overs proved too much with Cadets restricted to 143/7. Sean Davey top scored with 37 with Central's Ben Watkinson returning 2/19.
Five sides had a theoretical chance of making the title decider. Eves Realty Greerton, who were out of contention, upset the apple cart when they eliminated Carrus Mount Maunganui, who entered the last round in a share of the lead. Greerton's Charles Williams smashed his way to an unbeaten 107 as his team reached 158/8. The Greerton bowlers then restricted Mount Maunganui to 139/8.
Cadetsposted 220 for the loss of a single wicket, against BOP Indians. Sean Davey blasted 106 not out with Tom Sole belting 85 runs before dismissal. The Rotorua side were removed for 95 to hand Cadets a big win.
