A new cricket training facility funded by the NSW ICC T20 World Cup 2020 Cricket Legacy Fund has been officially opened at Dakers Oval, Blayney, just in time for the start of the women’s tournament this weekend.
The new $100,000 facility features three cricket nets and was jointly funded by the NSW ICC T20 World Cup 2020 Cricket Legacy Fund, NSW Government Stronger Country Communities Fund, Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund, Blayney Shire Council and Blayney Cricket Club.
Member for Bathurst Paul Toole said the facility would ensure junior and senior cricketers from Blayney now have suitable facilities close to home.
“With just over three days until the first ball is bowled in the women’s T20 World Cup, it’s the perfect time to celebrate the completion of the new Blayney cricket training facility,” Mr Toole said.
“Local girls and boys from Bathurst and its surrounds will be practising their batting and bowling in these new nets while emulating their heroes from this year’s T20 World Cups.
“The Central West has a rich cricketing tradition and these new nets will ensure the region continues to produce top-class cricketers for years to come.”
ICC T20 World Cup 2020 Chief Executive Officer Nick Hockley is thrilled the cricket nets will leave a lasting legacy in Blayney.
“The Local Organising Committee is committed to working with our partners, including the NSW Government and Cricket NSW, to ensure that hosting the ICC T20 World Cup in Australia has a lasting positive impact. We are thrilled that the NSW Government’s funding assisted with the new nets at Dakers Oval, which will benefit the cricket community well beyond 2020.”
Mayor of Blayney Shire Council, Scott Ferguson said “Council continues to improve sporting infrastructure through ongoing engagement with the sports council and sporting codes.”
“This is another great example of multiple stakeholders working together to achieve another positive outcome for Blayney.”
“The cricket nets are another valuable community asset providing a fantastic opportunity for more sport and recreation in the Blayney Shire.
The NSW ICC T20 World Cup Legacy Fund will deliver up to $6 million dollars to local cricket clubs and councils to support the growth in cricket participation in NSW. This project was one of 55 projects to receive $1.96 million in funding during Round 1 of the program.
The Opening Match will be held at Sydney Showground Stadium on Friday, 21 February. At the gate, all children’s tickets are $5 with adult tickets available from $20. Tickets are on sale now at www.T20WorldCup.com for both the women’s and men’s tournaments.
Media: Paul Toole 0407 962 357