Griffins double up as they regain the Rozel Shield

THERE could have been no-one more fitting than Damian Wallen to hit the winning runs as Griffins regained the Rozel Shield last night.

Griffins have won the Rozel Shield for the third time in the club's history as Odey Wealth Evening League champions. Back row, left to right: Damian Wallen, Jordon Martel, Adam Wakeford, Luke Le Tissier, Adam Martel, Nic Buckle. Front: Dane Mullen, Luke Bichard, Tom Kirk, Matt Philp and Marcus Thomas. (Picture by Martin Gray, 29812102)

A lifelong Griffin and the son of club president Dave, Wallen jnr finished on 34 not out as the new Odey Wealth Evening League champions finished their unbeaten campaign with a comprehensive nine-wicket victory over Irregulars at the KGV to complete the double having already secured the Weekend Championship.

An outstanding performance in the field saw Tom Kirk’s men restrict the opposition to just 83 for 9 from their 20 overs before Luke Le Tissier, who top-scored with 45, and Wallen took Griffins to the brink of victory with an opening stand of 77 before the latter struck the winning boundary off the first ball of the 10th over.

‘I think most people would agree we deserve it. This season we were really good – unbeaten – but, like I’ve said earlier, we didn’t think we would be in a position like this so to do what we did tonight was really pleasing,’ said Kirk with his arms wrapped the famous shield that remains the most sought-after trophy in domestic cricket.

The skipper emphasised that every one of his team had played their part in the success.

‘They have all stood up when needed and they have all made themselves available,’ Kirk said.

‘You’ve got to give specific mentions to Dane [Mullen] for taking the wickets he did and Luer [Le Tissier] for scoring the number of runs he has.

‘But also Damo [Wallen] at the top has been superb with Luer. They have got us off to a start in most games.’