The Central Queensland (CQ) under-18 cricket team, representing the vast and diverse mining regions of Central Queensland, has clinched a historic victory at the North Queensland Under 18 Zone Championships in Mackay.
This achievement highlights the burgeoning cricket talent in the area, drawing players from various towns including Gladstone, Emerald, and Rockhampton.
Team Manager Geoff Connor provided an insightful overview of the team’s journey, their outstanding performances, and the future prospects for cricket in the region.
“The composition of the CQ team, drawing players from various towns across Central Queensland, posed significant logistical challenges. The timing of the championship during schoolies week added to the difficulty in assembling a committed team. However, despite these hurdles, the team displayed exceptional cohesion and determination,” he said.
The U18 championship is an integral part of a broader series of age and gender-specific championships. These competitions collectively contribute to determining the best cricketing region, adding significance to CQ’s triumph.
Despite limited training opportunities due to weather and logistical challenges, the team’s ability to adapt and perform under pressure was remarkable and they secured three convincing wins, a feat rarely seen from a CQ side in the championship’s history.
“We didn’t actually have any training prior to the championships, we just had wing it on the day,” Connor revealed. “We traditionally don’t place well… but this year we just gelled as a team.”
Most players are school students, balancing their cricketing aspirations with academic commitments. Their dedication to the sport during a hectic period, including schoolies week, is commendable.
CQ cricket has evolved significantly, particularly over the past eight years, as it represents various clubs across the mining regions. This structure has fostered a strong sense of community and regional pride. Notably, the open CQ side has also made a mark by qualifying for the state final of the open men’s T20 championship at the Gabba in December. The Central Queensland Seamers chased down 163 runs to claim their second Bulls Masters T20 Challenge Title.
The championship saw exceptional individual contributions. Local Emerald player Jackson Baillie was the top Wicket Taker for the tournament with Rory Connor scoring the highest run in the tournament with an impressive 133, turning the game around from a challenging position of four for 18. Wicketkeeper Liam Welch was named the player of the tournament, excelling both behind the stumps and with the bat.
This victory opens new doors for the players. Team members Cayden Kent, Ben Kent, Liam Welsh, Rory Connor and Colby Rudd have been selected to represent the North Queensland Country Side, a stepping stone to higher levels of cricket.
Looking ahead to 2024, CQ cricket has several events lined up. The focus will be on nurturing these young talents and possibly participating in more inter-regional and state-level championships. These events will not only provide exposure but also a platform to showcase the region’s cricketing capabilities.
