This Saturday will witness the inaugural Gisborne and District Cricket Association (GDCA) women’s seniors 20/20 cricket match between Wallan and Kilmore, played under the lights from 5pm at Greenhill Reserve.
The men’s first XI Wallan V Kilmore two-day match will be played earlier, starting at 12pm.
It is hoped that the double-header will become a regular part of the season fixture, attracting community support for all teams.
While the women’s competition is a recent addition to the local cricket calendar, women have been playing cricket in the district for over 100 years, with occasional matches documented in the local press.
In October 1909, a Wallan Ladies Cricket Club was officially formed with sponsorship from the Bonds Hotel in Wallan East. In January 1948, the club made history by causing a huge upset, defeating the Wallan men by an innings and 46 runs.
Wallan District Cricket Club President Robbie Fowler said he was keen for community members to support the event.
“Our club is really looking forward to both games this Saturday, in particular the women’s twilight game,” he said.
“We are proud of getting a women’s side going this year, and this clash with our cross-town rival Kilmore is highly anticipated. We hope this innovative twilight game straight after the men’s game sets a precedent for others to follow in the GDCA.”
Wallan Women’s Captain Felicity Vance echoed Fowler’s sentiment about the upcoming twilight game.
“This is a really exciting way that we feel that the men’s and women’s fixtures can work together to help promote the game not only at both clubs, but in our local community,” she said.
“The support of the GDCA and both clubs to be able to organise this has been great, and I hope it will become a regular event each season.
“The women are really looking forward to playing in this game and I encourage people to come along and cheer us on.”
