SWC looked likely to retain its spot in division two but a five-wicket loss to the previously winless Mornington Peninsula 2, teamed with a breakthrough win for Hamilton, saw it fall to its second relegation in as many years.

Frustratingly for the association, a margin of just 0.05 points – the equivalent of five runs – put it behind seventh-placed Hamilton.

After rising rapidly through the ranks at Melbourne country week – ascending from division four to the provincial grade in the space of five years – SWC must now try to rebuild and climb back from division three in the years to come.

But it has already begun the regeneration process, bringing through exciting young players including Bookaar’s Henry Green and Cobden’s Jack Hutt.