The Mounties Manly Warringah Waratahs would like to thank our wonderful hosts at City Cricket Club and the wider Northland community for an unforgettable end-of-season tour to Whangārei, New Zealand.
The trip, held across five days in April, marked the latest chapter in a proud relationship between the two clubs that began in 2016. That relationship continues to grow stronger, underpinned by competitive cricket and genuine camaraderie.
Sixteen players from the Waratahs, along with David Gainsford, Geoff Tucker, John Borzi and Andrew Dawes, travelled to Whangārei, where former Manly great Craig “Jeanie” Little now resides. The touring side played a series of four T20 matches against local side City CC.
The standard of cricket was exceptional, with both sides fielding emerging local talent, and the 2-2 result a fitting result for the Tour. Sunday’s match at Cobham Oval provided a thrilling highlight, culminating in a Super Over in front of a lively local crowd.
While the on-field battles were a major feature, the tour was equally about connection — between cultures, clubs, and communities. The hospitality shown to our players and staff was second to none and reinforced the values both clubs share in developing people through cricket.
Manly Warringah would like to offer special thanks to Jeanie, as well as Joey Yovich, and the entire City CC team for their tireless work in organising and hosting the tour. We are also grateful to Northland Cricket Association for providing transport and the use of Cobham Oval, as well as to Andre Calitz and the Green by Nature ground staff for maintaining excellent playing conditions despite intermittent rain.
Off the field, the touring squad enjoyed several memorable experiences, including visits to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and the All Blacks Experience in Auckland. These cultural highlights were matched by the warm hospitality received at local establishments including Pure Bar & Grill, the Judge House of Ale, and The Duke of Marlborough in Russell.
We would also like to say a massive thank you to David Gainsford for his efforts in organising and coordinating the tour on our end. Without his tireless efforts, a trip of this calibre would not be possible.
The tour reaffirmed the strength of the trans-Tasman bond between our two clubs. We look forward to welcoming City CC back to Sydney in the future and continuing to build on this special friendship through cricket.
