Cricketers from throughout Port Stephens, Central Coast and the Hunter are being invited to pad up for Waratah-Mayfield District Cricket Club’s (WMDCC) biggest event on the calendar.

The organisation will host its 24th Annual Shout Brewing Sevens tournament at Waratah Oval 1 and 3 on Sunday 13 February from 8am until 6pm.

Competing teams are slated to contest five-over matches, with modified rules, with a minimum of three pool games for each side who, by the way, dresses up.

WMDCC committeeman Jack Dundas admitted everyone looked forward to the hit-out.

“I’m just fortunate to be a part of this,” he said.

“We’re now 24 years into it.

“But, a lot of hard work has been done previously (by many people) to ensure its success.

“There’s guys like Steve Christie, Tim Caimakamis, Ian Liddell, Troy Harvey – the list is endless of gentlemen who have played over in Thailand.

“They’ve seen how the format runs; and adopted and modified it to build something special in Newcastle.

“Our tournament is based off Sixes cricket, which is pretty big in places like Thailand and a few other countries.

“It’s also tied in with the Asian tour.

“At the moment, we’ve got six teams confirmed, however we always attract between 12 and 16 sides.

“So, we cap it at 12 to make it an easier day.”

Unfortunately, the Annual Shout Brewing Sevens failed to make it to the crease in 2021 but not for the reasons currently impacting sporting events.

“Ironically, it wasn’t COVID-19 that got us 12 months ago,” Dundas said.

“It was actually the rain on three different occasions.

“So, we’re hoping the weather gods look after us next month.”

Dundas said the main aim of the Annual Shout Brewing Sevens was to provide good, old-fashioned entertainment.

“It’s a combination of not only promoting cricket but also the social aspect of it,” he told the Newcastle Weekly.

“That’s important, especially in this day and age.

“Having blokes, women and families come together for something social is a nice thing.

“We try not to make it all about elite cricketers.

“So, we cap the number of first-graders per side.

“It’s a lot more conducive to fun.

“It is not competitive, although some teams strive to win while others enjoy it for what it is.

“Usually, the Burke’s Backyarders are more social – but, they have a go.

“The Golden Greeks boast some pretty handy players, so they’re a threat.

“However, there’s generally a smoky on the day.”

Dundas was grateful to receive such strong support from Shout Brewing Co.

“They’re Mayfield fellas who brew the best beers in Newcastle,” he said.

“We’re so fortunate to have them on board.

“This is their second year, not just being a club sponsor but being an event sponsor.

“It was just sheer luck [the partnership].

“We found them in Mayfield East – and they’re the best bunch of blokes to deal with.”

To be involved in the sevens event, contact the Waratah-Mayfield District Cricket Club via Facebook.

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