Inaugural Murray Towns Cricket School Cup proves a blast

Almost 100 students from four Murraylands schools have pitted bat against ball in the first ever Murray Towns Woolworths Cricket Blast School Cup.

Teams of eight students competed in four fast-paced games across the day in the boys and mixed division along with a girls division.

The event at Johnstone Park attracted 12 teams drawn from Karoonda Area School, Mypolonga Primary, Murray Bridge North School and Unity College.

Karoonda made the most of the longer drive and were crowned champions in the girls division while Unity College were champions of the boys and mixed division.

South Australian Cricket Association Murraylands manager Andrew Edwards praised the schools who took part in the competition.

“The response from the four schools was terrific, with all of them bringing multiple teams,” he said.

“SACA are always looking for ways to provide opportunities to kids to get involved in cricket and get active, particularly when they can be free community events like these.”

The event proved a hit with students and teachers alike, with many teachers praising the inclusive nature of the day.

“It’s a great, fun-filled day which has been well organised,” said Mypolonga teacher Jacob Rance.

“Even those that don’t usually play can get involved in it and have heaps of fun.”

John Philpott from Unity added that the positive vibe of the day had helped encourage kids of all abilities to get involved.

“There’s lots of enthusiastic players, many who haven’t played cricket before,” he said.

“There’s a great spirit from all the teams here today.”

It is hoped that the Murray Towns Woolworths Cricket Blast School Cup can become an annual fixture and attract more schools in future years.

• More information about the Murray Towns Cricket Association: playcricket.com.au.

Photos: Kurt Miegel. Disclosure: The author is an employee of the South Australian Cricket Association.