In another historic moment for Reid Oval, the first cricket game under lights will be held at the newly redeveloped facility on Friday November 25.
Adding to the occasion is the fact that it will be the women’s competition put in the spotlight, with Nestles to host Hawkesdale in the Round 5 clash.
Warrnambool Mayor Cr Debbie Arnott said that she was excited that the first night cricket match at the new Reid Oval will be a women’s match.
“Creating a venue that is female friendly was a key driver behind the upgrade, and to see this go hand in hand with the use of the new lights and the amazing Reid Oval surface, it’s what it’s all about,” she said.
“The atmosphere in the local women’s cricket division is so welcoming, and this was evident in the fact that both teams came together to train under lights on Tuesday – I’ve seen some photos and it was smiles all round.
“Our role at Council is to keep working to improve sporting facilities in the municipality to match the enthusiasm of local women and girls who want to get involved.”
Nestles Cricket Club Captain Brooke Herbertson said that having Reid Oval as a home ground was an amazing feeling.
“We love it and being able to show off our home ground is pretty special to us,” she said.
“The whole club is pretty excited that the first game under lights at the Reid is a women’s one.”
Hawkesdale Cricket Club Captain Tara Elliott encouraged everyone to come along from 6pm to watch the game.
“I’m super proud of how far the competition has progressed and to have the opportunity to play against Nestles in the first game here on Friday, it’s something to be really proud of,” she said.
“The opportunities provided for girls and women in our region are just so amazing and it’s something to be proud of and it’s continually improving and developing.
“So for anyone interested in playing cricket, I’d recommend picking up a bat and giving it a go.”
Entry to the match is free.