2014/15 First Grade Premiership ends Waratahs 26 year wait

Manly Warringah District Cricket Club | August 13, 2024

In 2014/15, the Manly Warringah Waratahs won our first 1st Grade Premiership in 26 years. Our last top grade Premiership was in 1988/89, with Greg Bush taking 1st Grade to the title that year.

Led by the esteemed Tim Cruickshank, the Waratahs defeated Bankstown in the final at North Sydney Oval, bowling Bankstown out or 168. We then chased the target 7 wickets down, eventually finishing on 8/208 late in the final day when stumps were called.

After day 1 was washed out, it ended up being a 2 day final. 3 wickets each to Nic Bills, Steve O'Keefe and a young Mickey Edwards led the way for Manly on day 1.

In the chase, it was Jack Ritchie who led the way. He carried his bat with a magnificent 87* in what was a career defining innings, and led him to taking home the Benaud Medal for the player of the final.

The headline image is one of the most iconic photos taken in our clubs history. Skipper Tim Cruickshank and coach Shawn Bradstreet holding the Belvidere Cup, looking out of the change rooms at North Sydney Oval. The photo was captured by the one and only Ian Bird.

The team was: Steve O'Keefe, Nick McLachlan, Mickey Edwards, James Munting, Nic Bills, Adam Crosthwaite, Cameron Merchant, Jay Lenton, Tim Cruickshank (c), Ahillen Beadle, Jack Ritchie, Michael Shepheard (Manager), Geoff Rogers (Scorer).

Match scorecard - click here