Aussie spin star’s fond memories
AUSTRALIAN leg-spinner Kristen Beams looks back fondly on her debut games.
A new cap meant a new start, and across three forms of the game, Beams, 33, has received her fair share of caps.
It was only fitting that the No.1 ticket holder for Cricket Victoria’s blind team was on hand to present the team’s debutants with their blue caps at the start of this week’s National Cricket Inclusion Championships at South Barwon Reserve this week.
“Every time you debut, I feel it’s just a moment you never forget,” Beams told the Geelong Advertiser.
“I can remember what it felt like on those days — I can remember what the weather was and who was there and what they were doing. They’re just moments that remind you why you love doing what you’re doing.
“You don’t get to present many caps over your career, that’s for sure. I always take a lot of pride in having the opportunity to do that, so to do that with the Victorian team on Monday morning was something really special.
“It’s such a special thing they’ll never forget.”
The championships — which also feature the national deaf titles — started on Monday and run all week at venues across Geelong, with the finals to be held on Friday.
“We’re going to see people have the opportunity to dominate and hope- fully play for their country,” Beams said.
“Without a doubt for me, I feel so fortunate being a part of the Victoria Blind Cricket Association and what they’re doing, and blind cricket is without doubt the most impressive cricket I’ve seen; it’s a lot more impressive than what we do.
“Come down and see some really good cricket and see something special. I think we’ll see some really good cricket.”