A strong contingent of wily old cricketers will fly the local flag at the National Over 50’s Championships in the Hunter from this weekend.
NSW is set to field seven sides at the four-day tournament, scheduled to take place from 3 to 7 November throughout Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and neighbouring towns.
They’ll face rival teams from all Australian states, as well as New Zealand, ensuring more than 600 players, officials and supporters descend upon the region.
The Blues feature Newcastle legend Steve Mace, who has the vice-captain duties, while Darren Thomson will skipper the Kangaroos alongside Jason Eveleigh and Luke Harradine.
Brendan Briedenhann, Dave Keast and Ian Wood have been selected in the Waratahs, with the quartet of Kevin Mason, Jason Pratten, Nathan Ryan and Brad Schmidt named in the Koalas.
Jason Lambert, Vincent Nicholls and Garry Pilon will represent the Emus, with Bruce Dempster, Rod Lundy and Jody Murphy on deck for the Wombats.
Scott Boyd is the lone soldier in the Kookaburras.
“We are thrilled to host this year’s National Over 50’s Cricket Tournament,” Newcastle Hunter Veterans Cricket Association president Stephen Leathley said.
“It not only celebrates the enduring passion for the sport but fosters a sense of camaraderie and community among participants.
“The event is a fantastic opportunity to bring together veteran cricketers from across the country and New Zealand, promoting not only competitive cricket but also to showcase veterans’ cricket here in the Hunter.
“Lake Macquarie and Newcastle councils have been very supportive as have the district clubs who are allowing us to use their grounds, while the local business community is very accommodating, too.
“We are grateful for their enthusiasm and commitment, which will undoubtedly contribute to the success of the tournament.
“The event is expected to inject more than $2 million into the local economy, benefiting hotels, restaurants and other attractions.”
For Charlestown Cricket Club Life Member Mace, he can’t wait to pad up.
“It’s a privilege to be part of such a prestigious tournament,” he said.
“I’m proud to be showcasing Newcastle and the Hunter to other veteran cricketers from across Australia and New Zealand.
“The level of competition will be high… and it’s a wonderful chance for players to reconnect and enjoy the game they love.
“I’m sure all participants will have a memorable experience.”
Mace recently returned from an overseas tour with the Australian over 50’s team, where they played 11 matches, including a three-game Ashes series against England.
The highly-respected batsman scored two tons, bringing his total number of international centuries to seven… the most ever scored by an over 50’s player anywhere in the world.
He’s also ranked as one of the top three players, globally, in veterans’ cricket.
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