THE Redlands Tigers are the 2025 KFC T20 Max champions after a pulsating Grand Final win over Valley at Allan Border Field on Saturday night.
In a clash that coincided with Brisbane Festival’s opening fireworks and RAAF flyovers, Tigers skipper Jimmy Peirson produced pyrotechnics of his own, blasting a breathtaking 102 not out from just 50 balls to set up a 41-run victory.
His innings – containing 10 fours and five sixes – was the bedrock of Redlands’ 6-191, scored after the Tigers had stumbled to 4-53 inside the powerplay.
Peirson, who finished the tournament with 354 runs at an average of 88, was the only Tiger to pass 20, carrying the innings with an extraordinary counterattack.
A late cameo from Leigh Drennan (19 off 18) and a burst of power-hitting from Lachie Bangs, including two towering sixes in the 11th over, gave Peirson the support he needed.
He reached his century in the final over with six and two consecutive boundaries, sending the Redlands dugout into raptures.
Valley’s chase began disastrously when Connor O’Riordan struck twice in his opening over and Marnus Labuschagne held two sharp catches in the slips.
Despite a blistering 76 off 38 from Max Bryant – including a six that rattled the commentary box window – Valley never fully recovered.
Labuschagne then turned destroyer with the ball, snaring a stunning hat-trick to rip through the middle and lower order.
His triple strike ensured Valley were bowled out for 150 in the 18th over, ending their bid for back-to-back titles.
The victory capped a fairytale night for Redlands, who also saw neighbouring club Wynnum-Manly take out the women’s competition.
Federal Member for Bowman and Tigers Grade Patron Henry Pike hailed the triumph as a landmark moment for the club and the community.
“Massive congratulations to the Tigers on winning the Queensland Premier Cricket KFC T20 Max competition last night,” Mr Pike said.
“A big century to Jimmy Peirson set the platform for a huge win, and it was all finished off in style with a hat-trick from Marnus Labuschagne.
“This result has been years in the making, built on the hard work of players, coaches, and the many volunteers who keep this great club ticking. The boys have done our community proud.”
