The colours of summer were back on ovals across Maitland and the lower Hunter as junior cricket returned in all age groups for under-9/10 Kookaburra cricket to two divisions of under-16s on Saturday.
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From Dungog to Cessnock, Thornton to Greta Branxton the Maitland and District Junior Cricket Association resumed with four new clubs and 10 more teams across the age groups.
In the lower age groups it is amazing what a year’s difference can make as Gresford revealed with the majority of their team playing their second year of cricket in the age group.
After a year of continued improvement but no wins last season, the Gresford boys opened the 2018-19 under-12 division 2 season with a nine-wicket win against Western Suburbs at Norm Chapman Oval.
Toby Smith was the star with the ball for Gresford taking 3-3, while Patrick Gillespie with 19 retired not out and Harrison Sellens 17 not out ensured they chased down Wests total of 62.
Cameron Barker top scored for Wests with 11 and Dylan Burley made nine.
However, the highlight of the match was the great sense of sportsmanship and sense of fun shown by both teams.
For more reports and full results across the age groups check the Maitland Mercury this week in print or online. There are now dedicated cricket and junior sport sections online.
All photos taken by Fairfax Media photographers can be purchased at the Maitland Mercury, Level 1, Suite 2/12 Elgin Street, Maitland, or by calling 02 4931 0100.
