Wallsend Defend Tom Locker Cup in Thrilling Final
Wallsend have cemented their status as a Newcastle cricket powerhouse, successfully defending their Tom Locker Cup title with a hard-fought 23-run victory over Stockton at No.1 Sportsground on Sunday. The match was defined by a phenomenal, match-winning innings from opener Aaron Wivell, who carried his bat through the entire innings to post an unbeaten 153.
Wivell's Masterclass Anchors Tigers' Innings
Representative batsman Aaron Wivell was in devastating form, facing 160 deliveries in a innings that crushed Stockton's bowling attack. The right-hander found the boundary 15 times, smashing 14 fours and one six on his way to a monumental total. He reached the 150-run milestone with just three balls remaining in the innings, propelling Wallsend to a formidable total of 5-269 from their 50 overs.
Wivell, who also starred with 87 in last season's final, built crucial partnerships throughout the innings. He combined with Baylee Borrow (11), Gethin Roberts (35), Callum Gabriel (26), and captain Jacob Montgomery (36) to ensure the scoreboard kept ticking over relentlessly.
Stockton's bowling attack shared the wickets, with one each going to Josh McTaggart (1-51), Pat Magann (1-38), Asher Hart (1-59), skipper Nick Foster (1-31), and Newcastle coach Adrian Chad (1-51).
Stockton's Valiant Chase Falls Short
In reply, Stockton started strongly with openers Jake Hainsworth (25) and Cameron Tanner (21) building a solid foundation. However, the game turned decisively before drinks when Wallsend off-spinner Will Parkinson (2-28) struck twice in quick succession to remove both set batsmen.
The Seagulls showed fighting spirit through the middle and lower order, with significant contributions from Asher Hart (44), Jeff Goninan (40), Izach Dennis (31), Josh McTaggart (22), Logan Weston (20), and Nick Foster (17). Despite their efforts, Stockton were eventually bowled out for 246 with nine balls remaining, falling 23 runs short of their target.
The Wallsend bowling attack shared the spoils, with Callum Gabriel (3-67), Jacob Montgomery (2-56), Baylee Borrow (2-28), and Lachlan Page (1-35) all making important contributions. Jacob Page (0-31) was particularly economical in his spell.
Wallsend's Dominant Streak Continues
This victory means Wallsend have now won three of the last four Tom Locker Cup finals, having also claimed the trophy last season. That previous victory was eventually capped off with Newcastle District Cricket Association's two-day premiership, marking a spectacular centenary celebration for the club.
Wallsend now join an elite group of clubs who have achieved back-to-back Tom Locker Cup championships, including Wests (2020-2021, 2021-2022), Hamilton-Wickham (2018-2019, 2019-2020), Merewether (2002-2003, 2003-2004), and Belmont (1991-1992, 1992-1993).
The only major piece of first XI silverware not currently held by the Tigers is the most recent T20 Summer Bash, which was won by City's Sabres in the 2024-2025 season. For Stockton, it marks a second consecutive runner-up finish in the one-day decider, though they did secure the NDCA minor premiership last season.
