WITH the ICC Cricket World Cup just a few weeks away, Bathurst will get its chance to grab a slice of ‘cup fever’ this weekend when the Home Ground Cricket Tour arrives at the Bathurst Sportsground.
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The initiative has been designed to promote the biggest event in the cricketing world as it is played in Australia and New Zealand for the second time, and the first time since 1992, when Pakistan claimed the title of world champions.
The Tour began three months ago and has been all over the nation, including a plethora of regional NSW centres since early January.
Former greats of the sport have been spending time with the locals in various towns, there has been plenty of memorabilia to see, including items from the Bradman Museum, and inflatable nets have allowed young players to have a go at the game.
In Bathurst’s case, ex-Test fast bowler, Pakistan coach and respected commentator-journalist Geoff ‘Henry’ Lawson [pictured] will be on hand to share his thoughts on the game on Saturday afternoon.
It was initially thought that the World Cup trophy itself would be accompanying the roadshow, but its place is being taken instead by a massive inflatable version of the silverware.
“It’s something different for Bathurst and the town hasn’t really seen something like this as far as cricket is concerned, so it is a great opportunity for fans to go and have a look at some pretty interesting stuff,” Bathurst District Cricket Association president Campbell Graham said.
“From around the region I’ve heard that the Dubbo edition of the Tour was a big success, Orange had their turn today [Thursday] and tomorrow and I know they’ve organised a few things to go with it.
“We’ve got Geoff Lawson as our ambassador and he’s a very interesting guy. He played a lot of cricket for Australia and he’s a very insightful commentator, and I’m sure that younger and older fans would get a lot from having a chat to him.”
Junior coaching clinics will be held on the Sunday, followed by the unique chance to watch Sunday’s Tri-Series final between Australia and either England or India on a temporary big screen.
Provided the weather accommodates all the planned proceedings, it is also a golden opportunity for cricket fans to get down and see some of the best local players in action.
On Saturday the Bathurst District Cricket Association first grade match between Bathurst City and ORC will enter its second day, while the Bathurst under 14s will take on Mudgee on Sunday in their Mitchell Cricket Council match.
“With both games it is a fantastic opportunity for cricket enthusiasts who otherwise might not get to actually go and watch much local cricket to go and have a look,” Graham said.
“The first graders will be there on Satur- day. Bathurst City have got a big score in that match and it will be interesting to see how it pans out.”
“And the under 14s who are probably the best team in their competition will be in action on Sunday and should show some pretty high quality cricket.”