Thursday, November 6, 2025

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Cricketers Pay Tribute Before Junior Matches

Before games commenced at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex last week, players and parents paused for a moment’s silence in support of Ben Austin’s family, friends, and teammates following the tragedy earlier in the week.

The Home Hill Cricket Association extended its thoughts and condolences to all affected during this very difficult time. Players wore black armbands, and a bat was placed at the boundary for the duration of the match as a mark of respect.

Blue Group
The Blue Group didn’t post many high totals this week, mainly due to a late start caused by technical issues with the iPad electronic scoring system. As a result, the game was shortened, and the balls-faced retirement target was reduced for each batter.

Kyle Wilkie was the top scorer with 5 not out, and also claimed a wicket and a catch in the field. Other wicket-takers were Kip Nicholas, Mazlyn Smith, and brothers Henry and Royce Cohen.

Kyle and Mazlyn were awarded the McDonald’s Sports Awards for their strong performances.

Gold Group
In the Gold Group, Oscar Mahoney hit two fours on his way to 20 not out, and also contributed a run out and a stumping in the field. For the opposing team, Ben Watkins struck two fours in his 17 not out and took a catch.

Mark Wilkie and Oliver Calligaro added 12 and 13 runs respectively, with Oliver remaining not out and performing strongly with the ball, taking 2 for 20. Tyler Schultz and Billy Muilwyk each took a wicket, while Mark Wilkie, Oliver Calligaro, Tyler Schultz, and Alex Cullen all effected run outs.

Oscar Mahoney and Oliver Calligaro received the McDonald’s Sports Awards for their all-round efforts.

Challengers
The Challengers division saw Doug Cohen record the highest score of the week with 14 runs, including two fours, followed closely by Flynn Sullivan, who finished 13 not out with three fours. Jack Gorey added nine runs, including a boundary.

With the ball, Jaxson Wilkins, Amaya Goggi, and Flynn Sullivan each took two wickets, while Everly Nicholas, Aria Bryant, and Doug Cohen claimed one wicket each. Claire Cross bowled a maiden over.

The McDonald’s Sports Awards went to Nate Ryder for his excellent fielding and batting, and to Doug Cohen for his strong batting performance.

Contributed with thanks to Scott Heidke

Challengers -Jack & Nicholas
Blue and Gold - Kyle, Oscar, Oliver & Mazlyn

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