NSW double up at Indigenous Champs

New South Wales have continued their dominance of the National Indigenous Championships, defending their titles in both the men's and women's divisions of the 2019 tournament in Alice Springs.

After both NSW squads went undefeated through their respective campaigns, the women's side prevailed in their grand final over Victoria by 46 runs to claim their 12th straight title, while the men's team defeated Queensland by eight wickets.

Batting first at Albrecht Oval, New South Wales women started well with the Hobart Hurricanes' Mikayla Hinkley (43) and the experienced Sara Darney (27) leading the way.

With the loss of that pair, Anika Learoyd (60no) and Roxy Van-Veen (24no) guided their team to a strong total of 2-168 from their 20 overs.

In reply, Victoria lost both openers early, and as wickets continued to fall, only Player-of-the-Championships Emma Manix-Geeves was able to make a strong impression, scoring a bright 65 from just 48 deliveries.

Tight bowling from Hannah Darlington (2-11) and Julie Muir (2-27) restricted the batting unit, and when Manix-Geeves fell it was all over, Victoria finishing at 9-122.

The men's match-up was a classic 'State of Origin' affair, with Queensland winning the toss and electing to bat.

New South Wales opening bowler Ben Patterson struck with the first delivery of the match to dismiss Queensland captain Brad Stout.

The wickets kept coming at regular intervals for New South Wales as Brock Larance (3-23) took three in the space of two overs to leave Queensland in serious strife at 4-12.

Sam Doggett (37) and Kieren Gibbs (18) combined to steady the innings but a total of 9-105 never appeared likely to be enough.

Opening the batting for New South Wales, Brynly Richards (11) and Pat Rosser (2) fell cheaply with Alex Melville (2-8 off four) claiming both wickets.

But from there, it was all New South Wales, as captain Brendan Smith (30no) and Ben Patterson (53no) partnered for an unbeaten 74-run stand that took their side to an emphatic win and ensured their 2018 title defence.