Cricket match was a winner

THE great thing about Cairns is, when there is an event, well, everyone turns out for it.

And, so it was for the city’s first Women’s Big Bash League game on Saturday between Brisbane Heat and Sydney Thunder.

According to organisers, we didn’t get the numbers Mackay did but it was nothing to sneeze at with more than 4500 packed into Cazalys to watch the cricket.

Managing director of AFL Cairns Gary Young said the local community showed there was a great interest in cricket, particularly the shorter format of the game, as well as sports in general.

And the best bit about it? All the kids.

It seems Cairns families are prepared to ignore the naysayers who doubted women’s sport would draw the crowds, and sponsorship, men’s matches do, and bring their kids out to watch a good game — regardless of who is playing.

It is a great step towards normalising women in sport for the next generation.

The match was also another chance to add to Cairns’ vast and growing list of events which bring economic benefits and build a sense of pride in a community.

Saturday’s match was the last of a three-year deal with Cricket Australia bringing games to Cairns, but feedback has suggested a case could be made for more games to come north in the future.

Mr Young said coaching staff were impressed with the playing surface and presentation of the wicket.

Word will get around about the support in Cairns for these type of sporting events, not to mention the standard of our facilities. Alicia Nally alicia.nally@news.com.au