In a highly anticipated top-of-the-table clash, the visitors arrived at Moughland Lane knowing a win would guarantee the title, while Runcorn needed a big victory to overtake them. Rain delays reduced the match to 28 overs per side, adding extra pressure to an already electric atmosphere.

Despite a wet outfield and tricky conditions, the loyal travelling Northwich support turned out in force, filling the bar and boundary with energy and belief as the game eventually got underway late in the afternoon.

First Innings: Runcorn 193/6 (28 overs)

After Dean Kendrick won his third consecutive toss, Northwich chose to bowl first. The opening overs were tight, but the breakthrough came via Will Marston, who trapped the opener LBW. From there, wickets began to fall steadily.

Alex Yohannan Usha made a crucial double-strike, removing both openers and adding a third shortly after to reduce Runcorn to 46/3. Marston struck again with help from a sharp gully catch by Jamie McDougall, and later claimed his third with a clever slower ball. He finished with outstanding figures of 3 for 26.

However, Runcorn’s innings turned when a 1st XI batter entered the fray, launching a blistering counter-attack. Despite efforts from Dean Kendrick (1/25) and Jimmy Kimber, the hosts rallied with a 79-run stand and finished on 193/6, powered by an unbeaten 95 from their star batter.

Second Innings: Northwich 194/7 (27.5 overs)

The chase began under fading light and sky-high pressure. Openers Jacob Booty (10) and Jamie McDougall (56) got Northwich going before Booty and Alex YU (3) fell early.

Enter Joey Talbot-Wakefield. With over 1,200 runs between them in the season, Joey and Macca batted with poise and aggression. The pair built a magnificent 116-run partnership, rotating the strike brilliantly and punishing anything loose. Both brought up half-centuries to the roar of the away fans.

McDougall eventually fell for a gritty 56 and Joey for a match-defining 70 off 57 balls, putting Northwich within sight of the title. The equation boiled down to 10 runs needed off the final over.

With the match in the balance, Muhammad Iqbal delivered a clutch cameo, including two outrageous scoops to the fine leg boundary, sealing the win — and the title — with just one ball to spare.

Northwich finished on 194/7, sparking jubilant celebrations among players and supporters alike. It was a fitting finale to a remarkable season.