The pair will again lead the SDCA against the Emu Valley Cricket Association (EVCA), with a return fixture confirmed for Sunday, 21 February 2027 in Bendigo.
Watts and Armstrong combined to lead the SDCA to victory in its return to senior representative cricket earlier this year, defeating Emu Valley by 56 runs in the inaugural McIvor Challenge at Chittick Park.
Watts produced a remarkable individual performance in the victory, falling just short of a century with 99 before taking 4-40 from nine overs and two catches.
The Tallarook all-rounder went on to earn selection in the 2025-26 Victorian Country Cricket League Men’s Team of the Year after scoring 620 runs at an average of 88.57 and taking 12 wickets at 16.50 during the season.
Armstrong will again take charge as head coach after overseeing the SDCA’s successful return to representative cricket last season.
The experienced Yea cricketer also enjoyed an outstanding season on the field, winning the SDCA A Grade batting award with 294 runs at an average of 98.
SDCA President Mitch Itter said retaining Watts and Armstrong provided continuity as the Association looks to build on last season’s representative success.
“Lachlan and Cam were outstanding in leading the group last season, so we’re thrilled to have them both back for another representative campaign,” Itter said.
“They are two of the most respected figures in our competition and both have a genuine passion for representative cricket and seeing the best players in our association come together.
“Lachlan led from the front in every sense last year. His performance against Emu Valley was exceptional, and his subsequent selection in the VCCL Team of the Year reinforced the calibre of player we have captaining our association.
“Cam brings an enormous amount of experience and cricket knowledge to the coaching role and did a fantastic job bringing the group together last season.
“Having both of them return gives us some important continuity as we look to build on what we started last year.”
The February clash will see the SDCA travel to Bendigo after hosting the inaugural fixture at Chittick Park, continuing the developing representative rivalry between the two associations.
“It was fantastic to bring senior representative cricket back last season, but we don’t want it to be a one-off,” Itter said.
“Getting the return fixture locked in is another important step towards making representative cricket an ongoing part of the SDCA calendar.
“We’re looking forward to heading to Bendigo in February and giving our players another opportunity to represent the SDCA.”
