Oliver Lees
Sunbury Cricket Club president Brendan Doyle wants to see women’s cricket boom at his club.
For the past two seasons, Sunbury’s pioneering women’s side has put in strong performances competing in the Victorian Cricket Turf Association and the Gisborne District Cricket Association, reaching the semi final in both competitions.
But one week shy of its third year, Doyle said the club is campaigning hard to get even more women and girls on the field.
“Sunbury is a big town, so I am surprised with our numbers not being higher,” he said.
“I’d love to see more girls and women playing the game. It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or a 20-year veteran, we’re all about participation and giving it a go.”
As a whole, the popularity of the sport in the GDCA has grown.
The association will welcome two new teams this year with Lancefield adding a second side and Macedon joining for its first knock.
At Sunbury, Doyle said the Junior Blast cricket program was attracting a lot of girls to the sport, but there was a still a gap in interest at the senior level.
“We’ve seen a big push in the AFLW with young girls playing at the Calder Cannons, but I think Cricket Victoria needs to look at women’s participation,” he said.
“Obviously at the professional level it’s getting some popularity, but it doesn’t seem to be filtering down to the suburban level.
“It’s a really enjoyable day with the T20 format, the games don’t go too long and it’s a very family orientated environment.”
The Roar will play its first game of the season against Macedon next weekend.
Doyle said the club is still willing to accept those wanting to give cricket a shot.
If you’d like to get involved contact Brendan on 0426 244 187.
