JED A WINNER FROM THE START
Jack Edwards would have slept well last Sunday night after making his captaincy debut for the NSW Blues against WA.
Captaining a side is a very rewarding experience but also very exhausting.
You no longer just worry about your own performance – there are 10 other players looking towards you for guidance and assistance.
Throw in all the pre- and post-match meetings, dealing with match officials and media commitments and, all of a sudden, your plate is very full.
Winning makes it all the more worthwhile and Jack is off to a good start in that regard.
The Blues came away with a narrow eight-run win over a powerful Warriors side featuring a host of players with international experience.
Jack missed out with the bat but picked up two key wickets as the visitors were bowled out for 279 in pursuit of 288 at Cricket Central.
“Jed” really enjoyed the experience and will be looking to continue those winning ways as the Blues one-day campaign gets into full swing.
We also look forward to welcoming him back to the grade ranks when rep commitments allow.
SUPERSTARS JOIN TAHS
Our women’s teams achieved big things last season and look destined for even greater success in 2024/25.
The addition of two outstanding NSW Breakers players – Hannah Darlington and Anika Learoyd – further strengthens what is already a very solid first grade line-up.
Hannah is a brilliant all-rounder who has represented her country and captains Sydney Thunder.
She is already bleeding blue.
“The community and grassroots (players) they have produced to then make their way into first grade has been amazing to watch from afar and something I’m now excited to be a part of,” she said.
Anika is a batter with great promise and a terrific work ethic.
She is capable of big scores as the anchor at the top of the order.
She said: “Having seen from afar the inclusive and family-oriented club culture of Manly, I jumped at the opportunity to be a part of it.
“This coming season promises to be an exciting one for the club and I am stoked to have the chance to be involved.”
Welcome to Manly, girls.
GREENIE GRADUATES
We are rightly proud of our pathways system at Manly.
It is the envy of most clubs in the Sydney grade competition.
I am pleased to see so many last year’s Green Shield side graduate to the grade ranks for this week’s opening round.
There are seven players in all – Julian Osbourne, Myles Kapoor, Frazer Pandit, Thomas Walker, Lukas Overhoff, Bill Martin and Matt Melville.
Not all will necessarily play this weekend – we have named 14 players in our fifth grade squad – but it won’t be long before all these boys come through.
They were part of our first Green Shield triumph in more than 30 years and will take a winning mentality into their grade careers.
All the best, boys.
