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Brothers skipper Matthew Wicks says the wet start to the Mackay Cricket calendar year is likely a dual blessing in disguise for his side ahead of a return to action this weekend.
The Poole Cup competition leaders dodged matches against finals rivals Norths and Magpies over the past fortnight, as persistent rain delayed a return to the 40-over competition.
With Harrup Park’s pitches now ready to roll, Brothers will instead open their 2021 campaign against a winless Pioneer Valley on Saturday.
The skipper said Brothers’ good fortune in avoiding tough outings against Norths and Magpies was made better due to the club’s place atop the standings.
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The future of Mackay Cricket is bright if the performance of the U18 representative side is any indication.
Five players – all Magpies – were named to the North Queensland side following a perfect two from two showing by Mackay Whitsunday in the Northern Alliance U18 Championships at the weekend.
The hosts finished second to Central Queensland in the overall standings, after both sides notched wins over North Queensland and Far North Queensland during the rain-affected championships at Harrup Park.
Mackay Whitsundays opened their account with a thrilling final-over win over North Queensland in a day-night 40-over match on Saturday, before easily accounting for Far North Queensland on Sunday.
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Magpies skipper Rhys McBride saved his sole interview of the season for its showpiece event and just like his batting, it did not disappoint.
Once again it was the big-hitting opener who stole the show and the headlines in Saturday nightâs Dixon Homes Division 1 T20 Shootout grand final against Norths.
McBride smashed 62 off 32, including four fours and as many sixes, to put Magpies into prime position chasing 124 for victory.
After Norths managed to dig themselves out of an early-innings hole to post a respectable total, McBride âknew it was going to take a lot to chase them downâ and took it upon himself to get the party started.