Clubs and big names gather for cricketer Tyson Bray amid tumour battle

An Adelaide cricketer who is battling tumours in his brain and spine produced a match-winning performance alongside some of the state’s biggest stars.

A challenging tumour battle could not slow down Walkerville cricketer Tyson Bray over the weekend as he led his team to a strong Twenty20 win against Northern District in their ‘Brayvest Battle’ fund-raiser match.

The two clubs, both of whom Bray has played for, decided to host the fund-raiser match-up after tumours on the 23-year-old’s brain and spine spread, leading to an expensive bout of chemotherapy for him and his family.

Former Adelaide Crows stars Andrew Jarman and Bernie Vince were among the players taking part as Bray led his Walkerville side to a win in front of droves of friends, family and fans at Walkerville Oval.

Walkerville and Northern District cricket clubs, as well as Bernie Vince and Andrew Jarman (front, centre) pulled together for gun player Tyson Bray (back, middle) on Friday night. Picture: Supplied, Walkerville CC

“Overall it could not have gone any better,” Bray said.

“Having guys like Andrew Jarman and Bernie Vince out there was such a great experience and everyone had a great time.”

Bray, who has been battling the now growing tumours for 18 months, had been able to play for current club Walkerville periodically and was eager to strap on the pads for his fundraiser match.

He was thrilled to be able to compete against his mates.

“It was great to be back out there and playing with all my mates from both clubs,” Bray said.

“I wouldn’t have been able to get through it without the support of everyone, whether they were there on the day, had donated from afar or sent messages of support.”

Bray was one of South Australia’s most talented young cricketers during his time at Northern District and is now attempting to overcome a challenge away from the pitch. Picture: Dean Martin

Bray has been unable to work as a result of his chemotherapy through 2021 and now 2022, but has been assisted greatly through the recent fund-raisers organised by both clubs.

All proceeds of the day went toward Bray and his family as they prepare to take on an uphill battle.

“Through Go Fund Me and extra donations the clubs have managed to raise $40,000 which is just a crazy amount and I really can’t comprehend that kind of support,” Bray said.

“I’m so grateful and overwhelmed by it all and it’s going to go a really long way in supporting my family and I as I tackle this big bout of treatment.”