Three Northam cricketers have headed to the Northern Territory to represent the state in the 2019 National Indigenous Cricket Championships.
Dakota Narrier, Tarkyn Narrier and Jermaine Davis Jr headed to Alice Springs last Sunday morning with Jermaine Davis Sr to play in the WA men and women’s sides.
In its fourth consecutive year, seven men’s and six women’s teams from every state and territory will compete for national titles in T20 formats at two venues across Alice Springs, the Jim McConville and Albrecht Ovals.
Jermaine Davis Sr said it was exciting for the Northam based Ballardong Cricket Academy to receive recognition for the high level of their players.
“Having four of us going over it means that the Academy is doing something right,” he said.
“Tarkyn will go as a junior representative. He will be able to see how the tournament works first hand.
“Jermaine will be one of the main bowlers and bat at the end of the order for the men’s side and Dakota will have a similar role in the women’s.
“T20 is fun and fast.
“They play everyday so there is no time to rest.”
The players were selected for their efforts on the field, with selectors looking at their statistics throughout the season.
Jermaine Davis Jr has competed in the competition before, but it is a new experience for the Narrier siblings.
Dakota Narrier said she was looking forward to playing with a complete women’s side, something she is not always guaranteed locally.
Cricket Australia act executive general manager of community cricket Kieran McMillan as the event provides unique opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cricketers.
“It is a time each year that we can shine a light on the strong contribution that Indigenous Australians have made, and continue to make, to the sport,” he said.
“We’re intensely proud of the efforts of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cricketers who showcase their talents on the national and international stage.
“As well as being an amazing carnival of sport, the NICC has provided a wonderful platform to grow participation and celebrate culture.
“It is highly encouraging to see cricket’s continued growth in Indigenous cricket participation with more than 64,921 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participants in organised cricket including clubs and schools across the country as of August 2018.”
