New cricket nets complete

NEW cricket training facilities at Doug Dean Reserve in Delacombe are now complete.

Worth $356,506, the works have seen the installation of three cricket nets and pitches, with retractable netting, and an accessible net and pitch for broader community use.

VRI Delacombe Cricket Club train on site, and president Thomas Nichols said members are thrilled to get batting and bowling.

“The new nets are a game changer and allow all our players, from juniors to seniors, the chance to hone their skills throughout the season,” he said.

Two cricket nets, which were no longer compliant with Cricket Victoria standards, were replaced.

The State Government contributed $100,000 from their 2020-21 Community Cricket Program to the project which was delivered by the City of Ballarat.

Mayor Cr Daniel Moloney opened the nets last month and said they will benefit residents throughout the growing suburb of Delacombe, not just the local club.

“We know how fast these areas of Ballarat are growing so it is vital we have proper facilities for them to use,” he said.

“Cricket is Australia’s national sport so to be able to provide new training nets just as the cricket seasons swings into full gear is fantastic.”

Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison expects the facility would encourage families to get active and to establish healthy habits.

“Love of sport begins at an early age helped by great coaches and great facilities,” she said.

“We want to encourage more kids to develop a love of cricket that will last a lifetime.”