Domestic Shield 2024: Grand Final, VCG
North Efate Bushpigs 198 all out (38.4 overs): Venables 58 (96), Tari 40 (53); Wotu 3-24Tafea Cricket Club 109 all out (30.1 overs): Remondo Lekai 57 (66); Pakoa 5-18, Venables 3-15North Efate Bushpigs won by 89 runs
Scorecard
North Efate Bushpigs are the 2024 Domestic Shield champions after defeating Tafea Cricket Club by 89 runs in the grand final at VCG. An all-round performance, led by Nick Venables with the bat and Harry Pakoa with a hat-trick, sealed their emphatic victory.
Batting first, the Bushpigs posted 198 runs on the board—a total that seemed just slightly above par. Venables crafted a resilient 58 off 96 balls, supported by captain Ronald Tari, who added a steady 40 off 53 balls. The pair’s 84-run partnership laid the foundation for a competitive score, with Tim Cutler injecting pace with a quickfire 39 from 34 balls.
But Tafea Cricket Club’s bowlers kept the pressure on, and Neto Wotu led the charge, taking 3 for 24 and striking in crucial phases to halt the Bushpigs’ momentum. However, 41 extras conceded by Tafea—due to wides and no-balls—proved costly, tipping the scales slightly in favor of North Efate.
In their chase of 199, Tafea’s innings got off to the worst possible start, losing opener Suria Lekai to Venables for a duck. Venables struck again shortly after, dismissing Julian Tommy as Tafea slipped to 13 for 3. Only Remondo Lekai showed resistance, holding the innings together with a gutsy 57 off 66 balls, keeping their slim hopes alive.
However, the game-changing moment came from Harry Pakoa. On a day where he delivered his best spell of the season, Pakoa removed the dangerous Lekai brothers—Remondo and Rodrick—before completing a hat-trick with the final dismissal of Neto Wotu. His remarkable spell of 5 for 18 dismantled the backbone of Tafea’s lineup and sealed the Bushpigs’ victory.
Tim Cutler and Nick Venables provided further support with the ball, restricting Tafea’s scoring options and applying consistent pressure. Tafea eventually crumbled to 109 all out, their innings punctuated by regular wickets and tight bowling spells.
The victory was a fitting reward for North Efate Bushpigs’ all-around consistency throughout the tournament. Venables’ contribution with both bat and ball earned praise, while Pakoa’s game-breaking spell secured the Player of the Match honor.
‘An Unbelievable Feeling’ - What They Said:
Harry Pakoa, North Efate Bushpigs: “To contribute in the final like this—it’s an unbelievable feeling. The hat-trick was special, and when Ronald [Tari] didnt want to give me the ball for the hattrick i almost left the field, luckily though he was joking and I managed to get the job done.”
Jamal Vira, Operations Manager, Vanuatu Cricket: “Congratulations to North Efate Bushpigs for their well-deserved victory. This season has been a testament to the growth of cricket in Vanuatu. A huge thank you to all the players, teams, and staff who made this competition a success.”
Resilience and Depth
This grand final caps off a successful season for the Bushpigs, whose resilience and depth shone through in a campaign filled with moments of brilliance. Their victory is a testament to disciplined cricket, and it sets a new benchmark for domestic competition in Vanuatu.
North Efate Bushpigs now celebrate their deserved title, having risen to the challenge when it mattered most.
Team of the Tournament Announced
As the curtains close on an exhilarating Domestic Shield season, the standout performers have been named in the Team of the Tournament. This recognition acknowledges the consistency, skill, and determination displayed by the players who shaped the competition:
Nick Venables (North Efate Bushpigs)
Tim Cutler (North Efate Bushpigs)
Jamal Vira (Paama Sharks)
K Tari (Mighty Panthers)
Wally Mansale (Splashe Mele Bulls)
Jacky Bangalulu (Splashe Mele Bulls)
Neto Wotu (Mighty Panthers)
Rodrick Lekai (Tafea Cricket Club)
Nalin Nipiko (Mighty Panthers)
Rival Samson (Splashe Mele Bulls)
Surya Lekai (Mighty Panthers)
These players have been the backbone of their respective teams, contributing to a memorable season of cricket. The recognition is a testament to their individual excellence and impact on the competition, which saw intense battles and standout performances.