Josh Cranston becomes youngest debutant in Highfields history

At only 14 years-old, Josh Cranston made his debut for Highfields’ A-grade last weekend, becoming one of the youngest in TCI’s history.

CRICKET: Donning the blue and red baggy cap of Highfields and Districts Railway Cricket Club, Josh Cranston became the club’s 428th A-grade player.

At just 14 years-old and having less than 48 hours’ notice, Cranston was thrust into the top echelon of cricket in the region.

“I was told on Thursday night after our net session that I’d be making my debut on Saturday.

So I only had one day really to prepare and think it through,” Cranston said.

No stranger to playing up a few levels, Cranston has found success with his batting skill already during his short yet impressive career.

“I played stage one and two, but then I basically missed three and went to grades.”

Highfields has also confirmed that Cranston became the youngest A-grade debutant in the club’s history.

“I was a bit scared at the start as I’d never faced men before, and tall men especially, who can bowl between 115 to 130 kmph,” Cranston said.

Kieren Gibbs (C) handin Josh Cranston his debut baggy cap. Contributed.

“I was definitely anxious waiting to get in (on the pitch), but once I was out there,

I actually felt pretty solid; I was not trying to take anything on.

“I was a bit lucky as I faced spin for a lot of my time at the crease.”

Normally batting at number three, Cranston made his debut coming in at number eight.

Because the side already had a set line-up, Cranston slotted into the lower order and was solid from the first ball.

“I came in with about six overs till the tea break, and I was told to stay there till the break,” Cranston said.

With his teammates falling around him, Cranston finished the first innings 29 not out.

He then went on to finish the second innings nine not out, defeating Wests in the process.

Having played cricket since Year 1, Cranston has spent his entire club career at Highfields, making the milestone all the more special.

“I’ve got good relationships with members of the club and the president,” Cranston said.

I still don’t think it’s really sunk in yet that I’m one of the youngest to debut, it’s pretty cool honestly.

“My teammates didn't give much away until the morning of the match, and I knew they were stoked for me.”

Having faced high pressure environments before in numerous representative sides such as; Darling Downs, Met Southwest, Western Swelter and South Qld, Cranston was anticipating some banter to be thrown his way.

“The opposing players I think also knew it was my debut, I didn’t know any of them, but I think they were a bit nice to me because I wasn’t sledged,” he said.

At only 14 years-old, Cranston still has a lot of cricket ahead of him, but he does have his sights set on the future.

“I definitely do want to play higher honours,” Cranston said.

“I’ve definitely found more success in longer formats like one and two day’s, so it might be in those hopefully.”