What greater pinnacle in cricket to aspire than playing under lights on the historic SCG turf.
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Well two young Bega Valley girls enjoyed that unique experience this week when they competed in the finals of the Cricket NSW Women's Regional Bash T20 competition.
Jessie Mudaliar, from Eden, and Janet King, of Wolumla, were both in the ACT Aces XI who contested the semi-final and then the grand final on Tuesday, January 21.
The grand final result against a very strong Coffs Harbour team wasn't in their favour, but that paled in significance next to the opportunity the Regional Bash offered.
Jessie's father, Drew Mudaliar, was assistant coach of the squad and also enjoyed the "spectacular" opportunity to be immersed in the history of the SCG.
"The SCG Trust opened up the members' stand gates for us, the old timber and tin stairs section, it was all pretty spectacular," he said.
"All the players and coaching staff were also given access to the changerooms - there's a lot of history in there, with players' photos and names on the walls. We all felt really lucky."
Mudaliar praised Cricket NSW, the SCG Trust and the state government for the sponsorship of the Regional Bach event that allowed the girls the opportunity of a lifetime.
"To give these girls an experience similar to what first class cricketers would experience, full lunch provided, cameras, live streaming - it was amazing."
Already accomplished representative cricketers, Jessie and Janet both had plenty of opportunity to bowl and bat for their ACT side during the tournament.
Batting second in the grand final under lights and requiring 153 to win, the Aces were unable to keep up with the required run rate.
Assured knocks from Kelly Rowlings (42) and Caitlin Galeano (37) helped the Aces reach 5-110 from 20 overs, however it was not enough for the Canberra side with the Coffs Chargers claiming the inaugural NSW Women's Regional Bash trophy.
Replays of the games can be watched in full on the Cricket NSW Facebook page
Ben Smyth
I have worked as a journalist since 2005 and am now Editor of Australian Community Media mastheads in Bega, Merimbula and Eden
I have worked as a journalist since 2005 and am now Editor of Australian Community Media mastheads in Bega, Merimbula and Eden
