CRICKET FEAST
Hurricanes playing in huge double header at Marrara
DARWIN cricket followers can get a first-hand look at the future of Australian cricket today when Big Bash League side the Hobart Hurricanes play a T20 double-header at Marrara.
The second weekend of the TIO Strike League has plenty of intrigue with the Hurricanes matched up with the Northern Tide at 10.30am and competition frontrunners the Southern Storm at 2.30pm.
While the Hurricanes boast former Test batsman Alex Doolan, top order bats Jake Doran, Caleb Jewell and Charlie Wakim and rising paceman Riley Meredith, the Tide can fire their own ammunition at the Apple Islanders.
Matt Spoors and Jay Lenton batted beautifully in the win over the Desert Blaze and Callum Hotham and Blake Maher are capable of big scores.
The Storm got big runs from New Zealand all-rounder Josh Clarkson last start and Christian Leopard and Josh Neill can score runs quickly.
Clarkson has focused on T20 and 50-over cricket in the past two seasons and is looking forward to locking horns with the Hurricanes bowlers.
“They’re a pretty strong unit even without (D’Arcy) Short and (Matthew) Wade and it’s why I’m looking forward to the challenge,’’ he told the Sunday Territorian.
“There’s definitely some quality there and we will have to work hard, hopefully it will end in our favour.’’
Clarkson’s fast medium bowling may be missing today with the big right-arm quick ‘’feeling some twinges’’ from his elbow.
“Hopefully all will be well on the day, we’ll have to see what eventuates with my bowling,’’ he added.
NT Cricket’s boss Joel Morrison said the fans who make the trek to Marrara Cricket Ground today are in for a big surprise. “For local Territory players to have an opportunity to test themselves against the likes of former Australian batsman Alex Doolan, or Riley Meredith who bowls 150km/h thunderbolts, is fantastic,” Morrison said.
“If you have an interest in cricket, or you’re looking for a fun day out with the family, make sure you get along to Marrara Cricket Ground for a close-up of the players.’’
Watch Strike League live today on ntnews.com.au. Follow the links or sign up at ntnews.com.au/ StrikeLeague
“Make sure you get along to Marrara for a close-up of the players’’ JOEL MORRISON