Jhiah’s dream time
JHIAH Baxter knows he is fortunate.
Last season after passing 50 just once, the talented Thomson wicketkeeper-batsman decided that he was done with cricket, citing a lack of enjoyment.
Convinced, however, to show up to pre-season training at the start of this season, he hit a handful of balls and knew he couldn’t resist the urge.
“Everything has come together and it all feels natural again,” Baxter mused.
Then a fortnight ago, brimming with confidence and part of a strong Thomson outfit, Baxter received a late call up to Victoria’s Imparja Cup side to play in the National indigenous Cricket Championships (NICC).
Next week, he’ll be keeping wicket for his state at Traeger Park in Alice Springs.
As Baxter put it, “It’s surreal, I’m very lucky”.
Baxter is proud of his indigenous heritage.
On the back of his bat, he sports a sticker with the logo of the organisation “Strong Brother, Strong Sister” of which he is a leader in.
His family comes from the Nygena-Wiradjuri region in Derby in Western Australia, and Baxter speaks with a sense of fulfilment at being able to combine his cricket and culture.
“In Geelong, I’m not aware of too many indigenous cricketers besides myself and another at my club,” Baxter said.
“It’s important indigenous cricket gets known, because obviously footy and rugby, basketball and netball are the main sports for indigenous people. I’m very strong with my culture and