The Panthers enjoyed a day of cricket for the ages in putting Nirranda to the sword with a brutal display of batting at Davidson Oval on Saturday.

English import Turner, 26, was the star, posting the second double ton of his career and reaching three figures for 100th time — a century of centuries.

He became the first WDCA player to make 200 since Nathan Murphy made 203 for Brierly-Christ Church against Koroit on March 10, 2007.

But home-grown Templeton, 21, was far from a supporting cast member. 

His maiden century was less destructive but similarly impressive and equally memorable.

Their partnership was a record stand for West Warrnambool, eclipsing the 291 set by Gerard Kearney and Colin Jennings, believed to be in the 1980s.

The Panthers’ previous best opening stand was 261 set by Billy Primmer and Andrew Robb, most likely in the late 1980s.

WDCA officials are unsure Turner and Templeton have set a new mark for the association, while long-time cricket stalwarts also could not say for certain.

In other records to fall, Turner set a new benchmark for the highest score made by a West Warrnambool batsman in division one.

West Warrnambool coach Dean Hurford said he had “no doubt everyone there witnessed something special”.

“Apparently Al’s grandfather had a tear in his eye when Al got to 100, which was fantastic,” he said.

Hurford said he was ecstatic for the two batsmen, who made the Knights pay for giving them three chances throughout the day.

Turner received two lives — at mid-wicket when he was on 93 and at mid-on when he was on 185. Templeton chanced his luck at cover before he reached 30. At one point, they ran 10 in consecutive deliveries — a six and a four as the Knights twice conceded overthrows.

“We were 0-180 off 40 overs at tea, Karl was 115. 

“ I wouldn’t say he went nuts, neither of the guys did. They batted pretty sensibly,” Hurford said.

“There was no slogging, it was all cricket shots. I expected when Al got his 100 for Karl to go sick but they kept pushing twos.

“The running between the wickets was exceptional yesterday. 

‘‘I reckon we’ve done that most games, added 20 or 30 with quick singles.”

Turner said he was proud of his 200, rating it alongside his 238 not out for Durham against Northamptonshire in an under 17 English championship match.

“Obviously 200s don’t come around very often. It’s always nice to get a 100, especially when you’re playing with new mates you’ve made,” he said.

“My form before this last six weeks had been a bit patchy. I’d shown glimpses of what I can do. It’s nice to show them what I’m capable of.”

Turner said fitness had a major role in his blazing form. He also made 133 not out the previous Saturday and has 668 runs for the season.

His fitness regime includes running each day and boxing with renowned coach Rodney “Rude” Ryan on top of his cricket training commitments.

“I’m starting to get used to the wickets in Warrnambool. My balance has felt a lot better since I’ve been doing boxing,” he said.

“I haven’t been going out, I’ve been training and getting plenty of rest. Everything is coming together.”

Templeton said his 111 beat his previous-best score of “mid-60s, nothing special”.

He was “pretty scratchy” early in his innings before finding touch, largely thanks to Turner easing the pressure by scoring quickly.

“Batting with Karl helped, he’s real experienced. When you went through a low patch he’d help you get back on track,” he said.

“He’s done it hundreds of times. 

‘‘You listen to what he’s got to say and take it on board.”

afawkes@fairfaxmedia.com.au