Sturt twins Corey and Thomas Kelly make history in SA Redbacks performance

Two cricketing brothers separated by two minutes have made history by becoming the first ever twins to represent the Redbacks in a long-awaited game.

It was a long-awaited achievement for two of SA cricket’s most talented brothers on Sunday as they both took to the pitch to represent the Redbacks.

Sturt siblings Thomas and Corey Kelly made history by becoming the first twins to represent the state side in its Marsh One-Day Cup match against Queensland at Adelaide Oval – Thomas’ debut Redbacks game.

While SA side lost by six wickets, Thomas said his debut was something he’d never forget.

The Kelly twins Thomas and Corey after their history-making Marsh One-Day Cup match between South Australia and Queensland at Adelaide Oval. Picture: Mark Brake

“It was unbelievable. You dream of playing for your state as a kid so it was an amazing experience and I’m very fortunate to have had it,” Thomas said.

ADELAIDE’S TOP CRICKETERS RANKED

“It was a tough result and only making 12 runs was a bit disappointing for me but it was good to get some time at the crease and feel somewhat comfortable at that level – I can only build from here.”

Thomas also said the experience taking the field and making history with his brother was something they had been dreaming about.

“We’ve both grown up in SA and watched the Redbacks so to be out there together was awesome,” he said.

“It wasn’t too different to any other game but it was really cool to represent the state with Corey.”

Thomas Kelly bats in his debut Redbacks match. He said he could only benefit from the experience at the crease. Picture: Mark Brake

Corey Kelly had previously represented the Redbacks after performing at a top level for Sturt with the bat and ball.

He said his brother’s debut alongside him had been well in the making.

“We’re both still really young at 20 years old, but Thomas has been banging the door down to play with an insane amount of runs for Sturt and his performances in all the practice games,” Corey said.

“I was very excited for him and while it was a disappointing outcome we can take a lot of learning from the game and get better.”

Corey said the goal for he and Thomas still remains to play as much cricket for Sturt and the Redbacks as possible.

The Kelly brothers (back) celebrate Henry Hunt’s run out of Marnus Labuschagne. Picture: Mark Brake

“We just want to perform consistently for club and state when we get the opportunity and just keep developing,” he said.

“Ultimately playing Shield for SA would be amazing for us in the future and winning that drought-breaking title – that’s what everyone dreams of.”

Thomas was also anxious to win titles for the state in the future, but said he had his mind on this season with the Redbacks and at Sturt – which looks to be a club firing on all cylinders.

“We’re in an awesome spot at the moment at Sturt and there’s depth right through for men, women and the juniors,” he said.

“I definitely think we have what it takes to go all the way this season, especially with guys like Matty Spoors coming in and providing a boost. Everyone’s feeling great at the club.”