The maroon caps romped home at Wade Park in what acting captain James Ryan said was one of his team’s best performances all year.

Ryan has sporadically taken the reins from regular skipper Richie Venner this season, to mould the 18-year-old to lead in future years.

After losing the toss and being asked to bowl, Ryan and his men ran through the Waratahs lineup, rolling the sky blues for just 94. Rex Cochrane (20), Nick Frail (21) and Matt Brakenridge (17) were the only batsmen to hit double figures.

Stu Middleton was the main destroyer for Cavaliers snaring 3-14, while Ryan (2-18) and Josh Doherty (2-25) all nabbed multiple scalps.

Cavaliers needed just four batsmen to pass the total, and after Venner (20) and Luke Wilson (2) were dismissed Ryan (30 not out) and Middleton (32 not out) eased their way past the target.

Ryan gave Waratahs credit, saying they were continuing to improve each week, but conceded his team was too good for them.

“I don’t want to take away from ’Tahs,” he said.

“They’re definitely improving, but we played really well on Saturday, and bowled particularly well. We didn’t field as well as we can, we did drop a few chances and we lost a couple of quick wickets which you never want.”

Ryan refused to speculate as to when he will have the little ‘c’ next to his permanently, with many speculating it could be as early as next season.

“I doubt next year will be the year but it’s just trying to get me more comfortable in the role, and prove to the lads I’m the right man for the job in the future,” he said.

“I’m not even sure if I’ll do it again this season, Rich and I will decide that. However I will have more of a say in what happens, whether or not I’m officially captain.