Global honour for Tassie duo

TASSIE teammates Justin Nilon and Connor Sheppard are both representing Australia in the 2019 INAS Global Games in Brisbane for cricket.

The pair, who play together for South Launceston Cricket Club, were picked in the national squad to play at the games, which is a world-class sporting event comprising 10 different sports for elite athletes with an intellectual disability.

It is the first time cricket has been played at the games with five Twenty20 matches between Australia and England scheduled.

Leg-spinner Nilon, 23, has previously played for Australia on a tour of England in 2017, but left-arm seamer Sheppard, 19, is playing his first series for his country.

Nilon, who had the honour to present his mate Sheppard with his Australian cap, said he is humbled by the whole experience.

“It [the Global Games] gets the word and message out that cricket is a sport for all,” Nilon said.

“This is the first time that cricket has been a part of the Global Games, and it feels an absolute privileged to be a part of it.

“It’s great that there is another Tasmanian with me this year, young Connor Sheppard, who I’ve known since he was 15.”

Since starting last Sunday, three of the five matches have been played.

The final two games are on today and tomorrow.

“That there is a pathway for people with an intellectual disability or any disability is just so amazing to see,” Nilon said.

“Words can’t describe how much it [cricket] has changed my life for the better.”