SWAN Hill & District Cricket Association has been declared the kings of Country Week, after racking up an impressive double this season.
In the first leg, the Under 17s, 15s and 13s travelled to Cohuna on Sunday, December 8 for the annual Peter Walsh Shield against Murray Goulburn Cricket.
Having lost the shield the previous season, the SHDCA swept to glory this year.
The annual series was established as a precursor to Country Week so players could get familiar with their representative teammates before heading onto the big stage.
SHDCA board member Ben Shadbolt said the players then got back together on January 7, 8 and 9 for Country Week and produced the goods once again.
“It helped that Country Week was played here this year, but our Under 17s scooped the pool, going through all four games undefeated,” Shadbolt said.
“Unfortunately, the Under 15s didn’t pick up a win, but the Under 13s held their nerve to win two of their three games and secure Country Week for the association.
“All the boys played really well, and if the results look a bit lopsided, it just reflects the high standard of cricket being played.
“And we are delighted to be able to have the Peter Walsh Shield alongside our Country Week trophy this year.”
Member for Murray Plains Peter Walsh said he had been “quite humbled” to be invited to donate a perpetual shield for the junior carnival in his electorate.
Mr Walsh said he had been unable to make the first tournament last summer as he had been overseas, but had really enjoyed seeing the standard at this year’s games.
He said the concept of moving the tournament between Kerang and Cohuna each year – so each association had a ‘home’ round in turn – had also proved a success.
“It makes it a bit of a long day for families, but it is an outstanding opportunity for our young cricketers – and possibly a few future Test stars – to go through their paces,” Mr Walsh said.
“As far as supporting goes, I have a foot in both camps, having been the Member for Swan Hill and living there, and now being the Member for Murray Plains and being based in Echuca.
“That makes it a bit tricky to back either side, so I am just happy to see the youngsters so actively involved in sport and representing their own districts.
“And I am delighted we have been able to present my shield to both associations now.”
