2024 Champions - Dumbleton Dynamite

Tom Kelly Century Powers Dumbleton Dynamite to Cheltenham Premier T20 Glory in Edge-of-the-Seat Final

In a match that will be remembered for its drama and dazzling strokeplay, Dumbleton Dynamite edged out Hatherley Hurricanes by just seven runs to lift the Cheltenham Premier T20 title in a thrilling final at the Victoria Ground.

At the heart of the victory was a sublime, unbeaten century from Tom Kelly, whose 110 off 66 balls was a masterclass in composure and timing. The 23-year-old South Australian struck 11 fours and three sixes, anchoring the Dumbleton innings and ensuring a competitive total of 158-5.

It was Kelly’s fourth century of the tournament, a testament to the form he has carried throughout the summer. With the next highest score being just 15 by Liam Brignull, Kelly’s knock stood out as a lone pillar of dominance and ultimately proved to be the decisive factor in the final.

The Hurricanes’ chase got off to a rocky start, with Dumbleton skipper Myles Holland claiming both openers inside the powerplay. When James Harber was bowled by Daniel Hammond for 23, the defending champions were wobbling at 67-4 in the 12th over.

But just as Dumbleton began to tighten their grip, Hatherley’s hopes were reignited by a blistering counter-attack from Vihanga Kottawasinhage. The hard-hitting right-hander smashed 59 off 30 balls, including five fours and two sixes, in a crucial 56-run stand with captain Joel Price.

With four overs remaining, the Hurricanes needed 40 to win – a tough ask, but not impossible given Kottawasinhage’s form. However, the pressure told in the final over when Finn Brabham struck, having the dangerous Kottawasinhage caught by Lewis Rollinson, sparking jubilant celebrations from the Dumbleton camp.

Scorecard:

• Dumbleton Dynamite 158-5 (20 overs): Tom Kelly 110* (66), Magarira 2-27

• Hatherley Hurricanes 151-6 (20 overs): Kottawasinhage 59 (30), Harber 23, Holland 2-20, Hammond 2-26