Welcome to this week’s edition of Tah Talk with Jay Lenton. This week Jay deles into the Jordan Daly debut, the latest on our new Indoor Centre, and our 3 Green Shield players receiving higher honours.
As usual, Tah Talk is brought to you by Invest Blue. For all your financial planning needs visit them at www.investblue.com.au
GIVE US OUR DALY CRED
Wow, what a debut.
Jordan Daly didn’t find out he was playing his first top grade game until last Thursday and strode out to the middle against a very good Uni side with our innings in the balance at 5/115.
He was still there at stumps, unbeaten on 90 and helping us into a very healthy position.
Unfortunately, he couldn’t complete the fairytale the next morning, falling early without adding to his overnight score, but there was no wiping the grin from Jordy’s face.
He’d waited 14 years for this opportunity and here he was debuting at 29, determined to enjoy every second while throwing himself into the contest.
The ultimate clubman, Jordy admitted he thought his time may have passed as far as playing first grade and was more than happy contributing to the cause in 2s and 3s.
But he more than showed he belonged, earning plenty of “street cred” by thriving on the main stage.
It was lovely moment when his childhood coach and club legend Mick Pawley gave a typically unique and moving pre-game speech before Jordy’s dad Matthew presented him with his baggy blue cap.
“It was a whirlwind two days of cricket that was just an incredible experience that I’ll always remember,” Jordy said.
“But even above and beyond the game itself – and what will stay with me forever – is the love and support I received from far and wide.
“Everyone at the club, past and present and as far as the other side of the world – Winnington Park (up the Park!) – were beyond supportive. The 1s boys and coaches made me feel so welcome.”
Epitomising that support was Lachlan Coyte, whose injury opened up the door for Daly’s inclusion.
Jordy said: “He was over the moon at my debut and at me doing well. That’s the kind of selfless club culture we’re fortunate enough to have here – where one’s success is everyone’s success.”.
Adding to the occasion, we managed to grab a vital victory late on day two to cap off a brilliant weekend.
BUILDING TOWARDS THE FUTURE
The good news at Manly is not just confined to the field.
We recently received word from Northern Beaches Council that our development application for a new indoor centre at Cromer has been approved.
This is tremendous news and only made possible by the hard work put in by our committee members and the generosity and support of our wider cricket community.
Building is expected to begin just before the start of the 2024/5 season.
This is a major game changer.
It means for the first time in three decades our junior and senior teams will be able to train under cover when the weather is inclement or when we want to mix things up and change venues from Graham Reserve or Manly Oval.
The centre will have all the high-tech features seen at the best indoor centres.
As president Andrew Fraser noted: “It’s been a goal of our club to get this facility up and running for the last 25-30 years. Ever since the last indoor facility closed down in Brookvale, it’s been a piece of the puzzle that has been missing.”
GREEN SUCCESS FOR BLUES TRIO
We are still buzzing about our breakthrough Green Shield win last month and now some icing has been added to the cake.
Three Manly players – batsman Myles Kapoor and bowlers Julian Osbourne and Harry Kershler – won selection in the Green Shield team of the year after outstanding performances throughout the campaign.
Myles churned out 236 runs at an average of 78.67, with a top score of 84.
Julian was the competition’s leading wicket-taker (18) and Harry chipped in with 11 scalps.
Well done to all three boys.
