Ex-Test opener inspires young Manly cricketers to victory

FORMER Test opening batsman Michael Slater inspired a young group of cricketers from the northern beaches to win a big tournament on the weekend.

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FORMER Test opening batsman Michael Slater inspired a young group of cricketers from the northern beaches to win a big tournament on the weekend.

The team from Manly which won the LJ Hooker Cricket Carnival final on the weekend in Ballina is coached by Slater, whose son Jack is in the team.

And his assistant coach John “Jacko” Jackson was full of praise for the contribution that Slater provided to the team’s success.

“He obviously brings a lot of experience but he also has a genuine passion for coaching and passing on his knowledge and experience,” Jackson said.

Michael Slater in his playing days against the West Indies in 2000..

“In my opinion some elite cricketers and sportsmen are not good coaches – but he is.

“And obviously he is an inspiration to the kids.

“Not only the Manly team but as we go around Sydney playing the other teams, it’s an inspiration for them to have someone like Michael Slater at their game.”

Jackson said when Slater was a youngster in Wagga a legendary junior coach named Warren Smith played a big role in his development.

“I think Michael got his enthusiasm for coaching from Warren,” Jackson said.

The carnival on the north coast attracted teams from across NSW and Brisbane.

In the final against North Shore, Manly finished at 7/189 before dismissing their opponents for 105 after 45 overs.

The star for Manly was Luke Burgess who opened the batting and scored an impressive 72 which put North Shore under a lot of pressure.

Jake Hutchings also made his presence felt, making 48 not out in the middle order.