A RECORD number of teams and participants turned out for the 2021 GV Harmony Cup at Shepparton’s Princess Park yesterday for the annual celebration of all abilities cricket.
In perfect cricketing conditions, more than 130 players from across the region representing 13 teams, padded up and rolled the arm over in a round-robin of matches featuring 10-overs per side games with modified rules.
Hosted by Shepparton disability services and support organisation, Connect GV, and the Shepparton/Youth Club United Cricket Club, the carnival started out six years ago as a friendly match between just two teams.
Since then, it has grown to a region-wide celebration of cricket and yesterday’s event even featured former international cricketers Sarah Elliott and Ray Bright.
Event organiser and vice-president of the Shepparton/Youth Club United Cricket Club, Tony Giblin, said the day was part of his club giving back to the community,
“It’s fabulous, but it’s more important the clients are getting the value out of it as well,” he said.
“It’s something they can look forward to, especially after the lockdowns, it’s a bit of a release, a bit of fun and exercise and it’s part of our club joining in the community.
“We’re really happy with how it’s all gone. Hopefully next year it’ll be bigger.”
