And he led by example on the opening day, smashing 19 sixes to score 179 in their nine wicket win over Gerringong on Saturday. Chasing 241, Shellharbour took just 28 overs to pass the total, opening partner Anthony Dragovic (34 not out) having the best view of Taylor’s fireworks display.

It’s Taylor’s first ever century, erasing the heartbreak of being run out on 99 previously. He was caught twice over the boundary in an otherwise near-flawless performance. 

“It’s a nice way to start,” he said. 

“Everything just came together, the outfield was quick and I was hitting them pretty well.

“It’s important for the club. We’re trying to build something here and be competitive against the top clubs.” Opening bowler Beau Chamberlain produced an impressive second spell to finish with 5-51 from his nine overs, just as James Barnes (57) and Ryan Micallef (53 not out) threatened to push Gerringong’s score past 250. 

Elsewhere, Brendan (78 not out) and Kerrod White (64)  have led Lake Illawarra to a dominant six-wicket win over The Rail on Saturday, chasing down 182.

Oak Flats defeated defending premiers Kookas after enforcing a rule where they were ahead on run rate at the competition cut-off time for play, 6.50pm. 

The Rats had just one wicket in hand and needed 14 off the final three overs, but had the superior run rate after bowling Kookas out for 228 in 48 overs.