CricConnect – the place for cricket fans to ask questions and learn more about cricket

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Step into the world of Courtney Sippel, a rising star from Country Queensland, leaving her mark with the Brisbane Heat in the WBBL and Queensland in the WNCL.

Delve deep with us as Courtney reveals the genesis of her cricketing passion, the relentless dedication it takes to secure a place in the QLD squad, her nuanced bowling strategies throughout the game, her journey to representing Australia A, and, of course, the dream lineup she'd pick for her ultimate cricket net session.

https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/blog/2183/courtney-sippel-bringing-the-heat

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1 hour ago

Peter Langston

Tamworth, New South Wales, Australia

26 Likes
4 Followers

First published in 1946 (I read a 1947 edition), the focus of the book is the Bodyline tour by England in 1932-33. It indeed occupies the first half of the book but references to it are sprinkled through the second half as well. Fingleton's candour dropped him into controversy throughout both his playing and writing career and this book was one of the chief reasons for his opponents' attacks.
Not surprisingly, given his robust criticisms of the demigod Bradman, the former captain was most upset by this volume.
Fingleton questioned Bradman's ability and fortitude against the short, fast bowling of England during that heated summer on and off the field when the members at Lords first struggled with their understanding of the Spirit of Cricket. Once the unflinching opener covered in bruises, Fingleton backs his assertions with with descriptions of incidents when he struggled against that form of attack but stood firm. His claim that Bradman ran whilst others stood and took it, stirred a hornets nest but it was the evidence he presented to defend himself against the claim made by Bradman that he leaked the famous Woodfull line to the press - "their are two teams out there. One of them is trying to play cricket; the other is not" - is not only refuted here but played straight back at Bradman.
The second half delivers player portraits and descriptions of other matches he both played in and observed. All is penned in his wonderful prose which stands through time. With a foreword by Sir Neville Cardus and the observations of a man who still once held the record for the most Test 100's in consecutive innings until Everton Weekes 5 topped him, his legendary toughness and durability shine through in his writing.
This is probably the best book written about cricket by an Australian author and set a standard which others such as Gideon Haigh have measured up to but never surpassed. Essential reading for a balanced view of Bradman's impact on Australian cricket and society and to be reminded just how beautiful the game can be in the hands of a wordsmith.
You might need a library or a collector to find it but the search will reward you.

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2 hours ago

Cricket NSW

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100 Followers

Cricket NSW and Sport4All, a program that works towards disability inclusion in grassroots sport, have forged a partnership, aiming to champion inclusion in cricket through education and training initiatives.

This collaboration reinforces CNSW’s commitment to fostering an inclusive sporting environment where everyone, including those with a disability, feel welcomed and valued.

Julie Stafford, Female Engagement and Diversity & Inclusion Manager, Cricket NSW, said:

“Cricket NSW are delighted to work with Sport4All as an education and training partner on disability inclusion.

https://www.cricketnsw.com.au/news/4010664/cricket-nsw-joins-hands-with-sport4all-to-champion-inclusion-in-cricket

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2 hours ago

Bipin Dani

Mumbai, India

7 Likes
0 Followers

Cricket Australia to set up India Fan Zones at all venues for Border-Gavaskar Trophy

Cricket Australia will create a brilliant experience for Indian fans this summer with dedicated seating areas across all five venues for the hugely anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy, including at the iconic MCG and SCG. This was revealed by Johann Dias Jaysingha, the National Operations & Media Manager.

Aligned with Cricket Australia's Multicultural Action Plan, the fan zones will foster an inclusive environment for Indian cricket fans and create an electrifying atmosphere.

Once they are on sale, Fans are encouraged to secure their seats in the Indian fan zones and help enhance the vibrant atmosphere by donning blue attire and bringing traditional instruments such as the Dhol for a family-friendly experience.

Further details on the India Fan Zones will be shared in due course.

The NRMA Insurance Men's Test series between India and Australia will kick off on 22 November in Perth, followed by a thrilling Day-Night Test in Adelaide on 6 December.

Both teams will then battle it out for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the Gabba on 14 December, followed by the famous Boxing Day Test at the MCG, and then finishing up with the Pink Test at the 3 SCG January.

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2 hours ago

Jeff Cook

Cricket Coach

Tamworth, New South Wales, Australia

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My best Grade team - Jeff Cook 1989 to 2015

Wow tough ask, this brought back many memories. Thank you for the opportunity to name my best team I had the pleasure to play with on a Saturday in the Sydney Grade Competition. The players were/are not just champion players in their own right but had a huge influence on my career and more importantly, gave time to others in the Club or opposing players. In particular young players entering the 1st Grade ranks in the late 80s/90s was daunting, their guidance and belief in you were instrumental to many young players going onto a career in cricket or distinguished 1st-grade careers.

Here's my team in batting order:

1. Wayne Seabrook

https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/1570/jeff-cook/blog/2182/my-best-grade-team-jeff-cook-1989-to-2015

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6 hours ago

UTS North Sydney District Cricket Club

Sydney, Australia

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13 Followers

UTS North Sydney Cricket Club is seeking applications for the position of First Grade Coach.

UTS North Sydney is one of twenty clubs within the NSW Premier Cricket men's competition, and also competes in NSW Women's Premier Cricket.

With a strong, young senior playing squad, we are looking for an inspirational and values-driven Men's First Grade Coach who will shape, develop and lead the playing group with the key aim of developing a team and squad which is challenging for First Grade Premierships in all formats within the next three years. The successful applicant will have demonstrated a successful track record of leading and developing players through embedding a high-performance culture at Premier Cricket level or equivalent. They will have proven success in creating a collaborative, supportive, inclusive and standards-driven team ethos at the appropriate level for Premier Cricket.

The role will be responsible for implementing player development plans for the First Grade and senior playing group, which develop the long-term capability of our players to compete consistently and successfully in Premier Cricket. The Men's First Grade Coach will work with the coaching team on and off the field to the highest possible standard of excellence and professionalism, enhancing the UTS North Sydney brand and reputation.

https://www.sportspeople.com.au/jobs/80897-mens-first-grade-coach-uts-north-sydney-district-cricket-club

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11 hours ago

Tony Goodfellow

Ballina, New South Wales, Australia

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0 Followers

The Rise and Rise of Terry Hannam

On February 28, 1954, young Kingston all-rounder Terry Hannam, was selected for the senior Canberra XI team, led by future NSW Shield player John O’Reilly, to play Monaro at Cooma.

A mere eighteen months before his senior representative debut, Terry was simply a promising 14-year-old junior playing 3rd grade for Kingston, however, promising enough by seasons end to win the clubs batting and bowling awards for that grade.

At the beginning of the 1953/54 season and based on his previous years grade and U17 representative performances, the 15-year-old Terry skipped second grade and started the year in firsts.

Terry immediately performed well at first grade level, scoring valuable lower order runs with his powerful hitting and consistently taking wickets with his medium-pace bowling.

Batting at number 4 for the ACT U17 side against Monaro U17’s, Terry scored a dashing 92 with 15 fours and two sixes, to help his side into the final of the ‘Old Executive Cup’ competition.

On the back of 7/27 against Turner and 5/27 including a hat-trick against Combined Services, to go with his consistent run scoring, the ACT senior selectors penciled in Hannam’s name for the match against Monaro, a truly meteoric rise from 3rd grade to the top for the 15-year-old all-rounder.

With his selection for that Monaro match, at the tender age of 15 years 259 days, Terry Hannam remains the third youngest senior representative player in the 99 years of Canberra cricket.

Terry Hannam went on to become a Northern Suburbs stalwart with both his sons, Garry and Brett playing for the club.

Brett, also an ACT representative, played in the victorious 79/80 Norths First grade premiership side, before pursuing a successful AFL career.

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12 hours ago

Western Suburbs District Cricket Club Sydney

Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

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70 Followers

Western Suburbs District Cricket Club 3rd Grade Premiers 1945-46

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12 hours ago

Queensland Cricket

Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

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24 Followers

Former South African limited over captain Johan Botha will take on the coaching roles of the Brisbane Heat and Queensland Bulls for the next three years.

Botha, 42, was confirmed today as the new head coach by Queensland Cricket CEO Terry Svenson, filling the roles left vacant by the departure of Wade Seccombe in March.

“We’re excited to announce Johan will take on the Heat and Bulls coaching roles and look forward to welcoming he and his family to Queensland,’’ he said.

https://www.qldcricket.com.au/news/4010402/botha-signs-as-coach

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13 hours ago

CricConnect Fans

Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

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257 Followers

Can you name the players, from one to five, who scored the most runs in first-class cricket? One being the most runs.

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1 days ago

Joe Maiorana

Sydney, Australia

40 Likes
2 Followers

David William Gregory (15 April 1845 – 4 August 1919) was an Australian cricketer. A right-handed batsman, Gregory was the first Australian national cricket captain, leading the side for the first three recognised Test matches between England and Australia in March and April 1877 and January 1879. Gregory was also the captain of the NSW team, notably during the Sydney Riot of 1879 when he rebelled against an unpopular decision by Victorian umpire George Coulthard during a game against the touring English team.

Gregory was part of a large cricketing family: his father, Edward William Gregory, was a "capable cricketer" with 8 sons, 5 of whom played for NSW in international or intercolonial matches between 1861 and 84; in all, 20 of Edward William Gregory's descendants represented NSW in cricket and other sports.

David William Gregory was a man of striking appearance, he "looked like an Old Testament prophet not long out of training college."

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1 days ago

Paul Ryan

Founder

Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

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511 Followers

On the 5 April 2023 at Cricket NSW Steve Waugh Medal Awards night Steve Rixon was inducted into the Cricket NSW Hall of Fame. A terrific and richly deserved accolade.

Steve Rixon was the driver of culture and standards in NSW Cricket for the best part of 30 or more years

On the 2 December 1977 Steve Rixon made his Test Debut for Australia against India at the Gabba to be Australian Test Cricketer number 287. The Australian Test captain on his debut was his Western Suburbs Club teammate Bob Simpson.

https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/32/paul-ryan/blog/755/steve-rixon-inducted-into-cricket-nsw-hall-of-fame

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1 days ago

James Knight

Founder

Canberra, ACT, Australia

16 Likes
8 Followers

G'day all. Just a heads-up about the middle grade kids' book 'Spirit of the Warriors' that will be released later this year by Crack-A-Story Publishing. The manuscript will soon be going to the printer and will be released in time for India's next cricket tour to Australia later this year. Here's a tease from the blurb. Smiles from afar, Knighty.

'It’s the start of an Australian summer, and a drought is raging in the bush. For strapping farm boy, Jack Riordan, swinging a cricket bat is the best way to escape from daily hardships. But what happens when an Indian family arrives in the small town of Stony Creek to begin a new life?

Suddenly, Jack is no longer the number one player in the district. That honour belongs to Ajeet Sharma who quickly becomes the star of the local school. Despite jealousies and misunderstandings, the boys must somehow work together on the field.

As their journey progresses, they learn each has painful secrets that have affected their lives. What are they? And what can the boys learn from them? The answers come from the strength of human spirit. From the author of 'My Life: Brett Lee' comes the story of Ajeet and Jack, and the unpredictable fortunes of the Stony Creek Public School cricket team.'

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1 days ago

Joel McGlynn

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0 Followers

First Over 60s match betweenNSW & Victoria

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1 days ago

Western Australian Cricket Association

Perth, Australia

4 Likes
6 Followers

Jim Allenby and David Bandy Share Olly Cooley Medal 2003-04 – Western Australia Premier Cricket

Exceptional seasons from young guns Jim Allenby and David Bandy were rewarded when the pair were proclaimed joint winners of the Olly Cooley Medal at the WACA Ground in March.

Allenby is the first Claremont-Nedlands player to win the medal since the Olly Cooley Medal’s inauguration, while Bandy in now in the elite company of two-times medal winner and Scarborough captain Kade Harvey, who last won the medal four years ago.

https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/480/western-australian-cricket-association/blog/2181/jim-allenby-and-david-bandy-share-olly-cooley-medal-2003-04-ndash-western-australia-premier-cricket

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1 days ago

Mark Atkinson

Real Estate Agent

Sydney, Australia

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0 Followers

Darren Berry was an outstanding wicket keeper who played 153 first class cricket games and took 603 dismissals, 552 catches and 51 stumping’s.

Darren scored 4,273 runs at an average of 21.58 with his highest score 166 not out. He scored 4 first class hundreds and 11 x 50s.

On retirement, Chuck as he is affectionately knows has become a very successful coach and mentor.

As a fellow wicket keeper my regard for Chuck as a keeper is quite simple, he was the Wicket Keepers, Keeper. He’s also a great mate.

https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/567/mark-atkinson/blog/831/darren-berry-the-wicket-keepers-keeper

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1 days ago

Mark Atkinson

Real Estate Agent

Sydney, Australia

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0 Followers

Colin Miller first-class career spanned 16 seasons from 1985/86 to 2001/02 playing 3 states Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania. He became Australian Test Cricket Player Number 379 and went on to play 18 Tests in the Baggy Green.

He made his First-Class debut at the age of 21 but had to wait until he was 34 to play his First Test

Colin “Funky” Miller had an amazing cricketing journey. He travelled the world to play the game he loves and had the unique ability to adapt or switch from bowling medium pace swing bowling to bowling off-spin successfully at the highest level.

https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/567/mark-atkinson/blog/2180/colin-miller-funky-was-a-free-spirit

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1 days ago

Penrith Cricket Club

Sydney, Australia

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17 Followers

Early heroes - Penrith Cricket Club

When Nepean played Lord Sheffield’s Englishmen some of the local ‘name’ players were William Peter Howell, known as ‘Bill’ or ‘Farmer Bill’, who would play for NSW and Australia; James Oatley Cleeve, who would play for NSW in an Inter-colonial match in 1882 v Victoria; and, the earliest recorded Nepean District player to play First-class cricket (1874), Edwin ‘Ted’ Evans.

https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/330/penrith-cricket-club/blog/2179/early-heroes-penrith-cricket-club

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2 days ago

Dean Tuckwell

Travel Agent

Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia

62 Likes
20 Followers

As the son and grandson of Wallabies, Phil Mooney was destined to be a rugby player. That he was also an accomplished first grade batsman with Western Suburbs was testament to his prodigious sporting talent and he fortunately played in an era where he was able to juggle both sports without having to choose one over the other.

A skilled and intelligent fly half or fullback with Wests in the Brisbane Premier competition, many judges believe that Phil would have played Super Rugby in the modern era but with Australian rugby only having 2 provinces and players of the calibre of Michael Lynagh, Brian Smith, Greg Martin & Rod Latham standing in his way, he never played for Queensland at senior level.

https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/69/dean-tuckwell/blog/2178/phil-mooney-this-sporting-life

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2 days ago

Mitch Lloyd

Managing Director

Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

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0 Followers

NSW Schoolboys Cricket team 2003-04 and report from the National Championships

https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/1277/mitch-lloyd/blog/2177/nsw-schoolboys-cricket-team-2003-04-and-report-from-the-national-championships

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2 days ago

Western Suburbs District Cricket Club 3rd Grade Premiers 1945-46

Can you name the players, from one to five, who scored the most runs in first-class cricket? One being the most runs.

First Over 60s match betweenNSW & Victoria

NSW Schoolboys Cricket team 2003-04 and report from the National Championships https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/1277/mitch-lloyd/blog/2177/nsw-schoolboys-cricket-team-2003-04-and-report-from-the-national-championships

NSW Schoolboys Cricket team 2003-04 and report from the National Championships

https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/1277/mitch-lloyd/blog/2177/nsw-schoolboys-cricket-team-2003-04-and-report-from-the-national-championships