VSDCA 2024-25: Confidence key to Mt Waverley’s ‘crucial’ run home

Mt Waverley’s stunning upset of powerhouse Noble Park on Saturday sets the scene for a cliffhanging run home, with confidence brimming at the business end of the season.

Jake Rigby took 2-31 on Saturday. Picture: Valeriu Campan

ONE of the comp’s most sought-after scalps now belongs to Mt Waverley – and captain Hareen Silva says it’s a timely boost ahead of a “crucial” run home.

Mt Waverley’s stunning four-wicket upset of powerhouse Noble Park on Saturday has Silva’s men eyeing a top-six berth with seven rounds remaining.

They sit sixth – ahead of Bayswater on equal points – but have played one less game with four wins from eight matches.

“We’d been slow to start the season, but (Saturday) is really good for the confidence – especially playing against Noble Park, the champions of last year,” Silva said.

“For us it’s a crucial next seven rounds – we’re one game behind.

“We’ve got to keep winning, keep this momentum going and find a place in the top six.

“The mentality for us is to try and win all the games to be in the top three, but winning is key here because we’ve had two games washed out as well.

“Six out of the seven games we probably have to win to be in the top three, if not, the top six to be honest.”

Despite the dominance of Noble Park heavy-hitter Sahan Perera on Saturday – belting 113 runs off 105 balls – Mt Waverley put on 6-250 to chase down the hosts’ 6-248.

Silva, who drove 41 runs, was among a middle-order doing the heavy lifting, alongside Angus Robbins (79), Kurt Benjamin (51) and Shenuka De Silva (46 not out).

“Even after losing three wickets early, we just kept putting pressure back on the (Noble Park) bowlers,” Silva said.

Shenuka De Silva has been a standout for the Roos this season, collecting 20 wickets at 13.75 – ranked third in the competition.

His effort follows a haul of 35 wickets last season.

“Shenuka is one of the best spinners in the competition – he had a really successful year last year … (and) his confidence has come through to this year, he’s bowling really well.

“He’s definitely the pick of the bowlers for us and it’s good to see him getting rewarded.”

Mt Waverley is away to Donvale (13th) on Saturday.