Darwin Cricket Club have claimed the 2025 DDCC Carlton Mid Premier Grade Two-Day Premiership, defeating Southern Districts by 51 runs at DXC Arena to cap off an undefeated two-day season.
The Eagles secured their first two-day title since 2017 with a gritty team performance led by captain Jacob Dickman’s unbeaten century and William Pilkington’s decisive five-wicket haul.
Batting first, Darwin were rocked early by Southern Districts quick Louis Smith, who removed both openers cheaply. With Australia A representative Jake Weatherald unavailable on State duty, it was Dickman who stood tall under pressure. The skipper produced a composed 128\* from 209 balls, anchoring the innings while wickets fell around him. Contributions from Kane Halfpenny (31), Reiley Mark (22) and Bailey Garnham (28) helped guide the Eagles to 9/257 from 80 overs.
In reply, Southern Districts kept the contest alive through Sean Thompson (43) and Zeph Netherway (55), but Darwin’s bowlers maintained relentless pressure. Dickman turned to his strike weapons at key moments, with David Howe (2-60) and Reiley Mark (2-78) making vital breakthroughs.
The turning point came when Kane Halfpenny pulled off a remarkable reflex catch at bat-pad to dismiss Crocs captain Tim Garner, igniting the Eagles’ momentum. From there, Pilkington stamped his authority, tearing through the middle and lower order with 5-37 from 11.1 overs.
Southern Districts were bowled out for 206 in the 70th over, handing Darwin a historic victory and an undefeated premiership campaign.
NT Cricket Head of Clubs and Competitions Karl Mayne congratulated both sides on a fitting finale to the season.
"From the first ball of the year on April 5th to the final wicket of the grand final, the standard of play has been exceptional, culminating in this great contest.
With over 850 matches played across the DDCC this season, the commitment from all clubs and players is truly what makes the Carlton Mid Premier Grand Final the pinnacle of community cricket in the Top End, and a reflection of the passion and enthusiasm that drives our sport forward."
Darwin Cricket Club captain Jacob Dickman praised his side’s ability to respond under pressure.
“A lot of hard work is how we got it done,” Dickman said.
“Southern Districts pushed us all the way, but the belief in our group is strong. Everyone has played a role this season and today it was Will Pilkington’s day with the ball. That catch from Kane (Halfpenny) was something we’ll all remember – it really lifted us.”
The victory crowns a standout year for Dickman, who finished the season as the competition’s leading run scorer and captain of the DDCC Team of the Season.
Result
Darwin 9/257 (J. Dickman 128\*, B. Garnham 28, M. Hammond 4-99)
Def.
Southern Districts 206 (Z. Netherway 55, S. Thompson 43, W. Pilkington 5-37, R. Mark 2-78, D. Howe 2-60)
Darwin won by 51 runs.
Match results and highlights from the game can be found at play.cricket.com.au