By Nick Creely
Tuesday 13 November will likely go down as one of the most significant dates for female cricket in the region.
The Dandenong District Cricket Association (DDCA) – one of the most powerful, revered cricket competitions in Melbourne – saw a glimpse well and truly into its future, with the inaugural girls competition kicking off at Reedy Reserve, the home of the Heinz Southern Districts Cricket Club.
Supporters of the association, parents and the four enthusiastic teams, HSD/Hallam Kalora Park, Parkfield/North Dandenong, Narre South and Lynbrook did battle in the historic 17 over per side matches.
The significance of the occasion was not lost on DDCA junior vice-president Steven Richards, who was thrilled with how the night played out, and lauded all involved for getting it up and running.
“The work the DDCA junior committee and Adrian Jones put in was certainly worth it on Tuesday night,” he said.
“To see the girls out there playing cricket will be one of the highlights of the year.”
Regardless of the results, it marks a significant moment for the association as it continues to thrive in the Dandenong and Casey regions, particularly with female cricket. As shown by the extraordinary success of the Australian Women’s side at the World T20’s, to the major influence of Dandenong in the Victorian Premier Cricket competition, there’s plenty of inspiration for female cricketers to dream big.
And there’s certainly plenty of talent in the wings – who with some more development and opportunity – can flourish, and become some of the next big stars of Australian cricket.
“Across the two games there were certainly some very talented cricketers whom I have no doubt will go onto play higher cricket in the years to come,” Richards said.
“The DDCA are very excited about the future of girls cricket. We have goals that we would like to achieve and we are well on our way to doing that.”
Ahead of the second round, which will once again be played at Reedy Reserve, Richards said that excitement continues to build in the association and the region.
“Everyone that I have spoken to have received this (the opening night) very well,” he said.
“They can’t wait for next week a lot of the girls said.
“Credit must also go to HSD for agreeing to host this week.”
In the two matches, Lynbrook defeated Narre South and Parkfield/North Dandenong got the better of HSD/Hallam Kalora Park. Silverton – who had the bye – will play their first game in the coming round.
