Eleven girls teams had a blast at a cricket festival in Cromwell organised by Otago Cricket with the support of Otago Secondary Schools Sports Association last month.

Otago Country Cricket general manager and women's coordinator Fiona Ryall said the day involved Year 9 and 10 year old kōhine (girls) from Cromwell College, Dunstan High School, Wakatipu High School and Mt Aspiring College.

“The day was about participation and getting the girls involved and playing cricket as opposed to placings . . . there was one team who had a bye each round and during this bye we had an activation station with drills and fun games so we never had anyone

sitting on the sidelines.”

Dunstan High School bowler Amelia Smith (right) bowls a ball during a Smash 5 against Mt Aspiring College team. PHOTO: Supplied 

The girls played a modified version of the game called Smash Cricket with a soft ball and plastic bat. 

In Smash Cricket teams rotate between batting and fielding every five overs to ensure that it is fast and furious to keep everyone involved in the game.

Fiona said feedback on the day was great, and the sunny weather added to the atmosphere.

“There were lots of smiles, laughter, great team work and some really good cricket. 

“Otago Country Cricket will be running a Yeah Girls session in Cromwell on Tuesday in term one and a Smash 5 competition in Wanaka on Wednesday nights – open for all schools to join.”

Mt Aspiring College and Dunstan High School pupils enjoyed connecting and learning new skills. PHOTO: Supplied 

The cricket festival was part of an Otago Cricket Women and Girls week of events dedicated to fun and empowering cricket experiences for girls and women of all ages. 

A handstand competition added to the fun during the cricket festival.

Local cricket fans can look forward to three Super Smash fixtures at Alexandra’s Molyneux Park this month (December 27, 29 and 31). The Otago Volts and Sparks and Central’s own T20 world cup champion White Fern Eden Carson will be playing.  

Read more: Maniototo cricketer confident after white ferns success

PHOTOS: Otago Country Cricket/ Otago Cricket Association Community Cricket 

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