NSW Community Cup: Wollongong cricketers on target to become the state’s inaugural top club team

A team of Wollongong’s finest are on target to earn a slice of cricketing history this Sunday in the finals of the inaugural NSW Community Cup. Meet the stars and hear from the coach.

(L-R) Cooper Maddinson and Ethan Debono will be eager for more runs as Wollongong District Cricket Club push towards NSW Community Cup glory. Photo: Adam Lindberg Design

History awaits at Rouse Hill this Sunday when four of the state’s top clubs tee-off for the inaugural NSW Community Cricket Cup.

Wollongong District Cricket Club will there, the T20 powerhouse will fly the finals flag for the Illawarra after they knocked out gun Sydney side Georges River and Riverina’s finest, the South Wagga Blues.

One of 24 clubs statewide to embrace a cracking Cricket NSW initiative, Wollongong coach and player Nathan Loveday said his outfit is capable of creating history.

“If we can play our best cricket, we will give ourselves a good chance,” said Loveday, whose side has already hoisted the local first grade T20 trophy this season.

“We face Epping Bulls in the semi, they’re one of the strongest sides in the Sydney Shires comp, but we are confident in our ability and hopefully we can come out on top.”

Ethan Debono is no stranger to hitting a crowd catch. Photo: Adam Lindberg Design

And why not?

With sluggers like Ethan Debono constantly teasing pedestrians with long bombs, punters at Rouse Hill should pack a hard hat.

Last November in the local T20 final, the right-hander with an eye like a dead fish clubbed an unbeaten 116 of just 67 balls, launching four maximums out of North Dalton Park.

“Ethan is definitely one to watch, he represented NSW Country this season,” said Loveday.

“His form in the Community Cup has been outstanding too, he hit seven out of the park against Georges River on our trip to Bexley Oval.

“But it’s not just him, captain Toby Dodds is the leading run scorer in the local one day competition.”

Spanking the pill to all parts is one thing, but to be on the receiving end is something Loveday’s side is well equipped to handle.

“All-rounder Pushpinder Jassal picked up five wickets a fortnight ago, and Cooper Bramley is among the leading wicket takers in the one day comp,” he said.

In a tight-knit unit, it turns out Bramley’s torment isn’t only aimed at opening batsman.

“Cooper is quality with the new ball, but as the team’s biggest pest, it’s the least he can do,” Loveday explained with a laugh.

“He’s constantly on his phone, always Snapchatting and always talking absolute garbage.”

Cooper Bramley bowls good heat and is just as dangerous off the park. Photo: Adam Lindberg Design

But when it comes to pointing the finger, Bramley wasn’t the only one in the coach’s sights.

“For all our talent with bat and ball, I have to say, I’m not so sure we have anyone with what I’d call safe hands,” he joked, before touching on what a victory would mean for the club.

“A win would be a massive boost heading into the local finals and would be a reflection of the hard work of the playing group and coaching staff over the last few years.

“For locals like Dodds and fast bowler David Wood, to lift the trophy would mean the world given they are both Wollongong juniors who have been playing for 10-15 years.”

David Wood is once local junior chasing history. Picture: Wollongong DCC

In addition to the trophy, the winner will collect $2000, while the three other finalists receive free entry for next season valued at $500.

“The prize money would come in handy,” said Loveday.

“If we win, our club would put it towards equipment or reducing fees for next season.

“That aside, the competition has been excellent. It’s a great opportunity to be apart of something statewide and to travel with teammates and build camaraderie.”

For fans of cricket and Wollongong locals, the boys would love nothing more than to hear your support on Sunday when they chase history in Sydney’s west at Rouse Hill.