Rock star joins cricket legends

ONE of the biggest names in Australian rock music will bring star power to a stacked lineup of cricket legends coming to Lismore.

Former Powderfinger lead singer Bernard Fanning will play in the Legends of Cricket Twenty20 match at Oakes Oval, Lismore tomorrow.

Fanning will be joined by Grinspoon guitarist Pat Davern and Lismore-raised cricket legend Adam Gilchrist as the headliners of the charity match.

The three members of Grinspoon formed the rock band in Lismore, while Fanning has called the Northern Rivers home since 2016.

Former Australian and state players Steve O’Keefe, Michael Kasprowicz, Jason Gillespie, Dan Christian, Nathan Hauritz and Andy Bichel will also be part of the action.

Gilchrist said the day is aimed at raising spirits and celebrating resilience as Lismore continues in its flood recovery efforts.

“Lismore is where I grew up; it will always hold a special place in my heart,” he said.

“Seeing so many of my cricketing mates come together to help support this town and its people is incredible.

“It’s great to see how far we’ve come in rebuilding; there is still a way to go.

“Events like this are about recognising what is possible and raising the profile of Lismore as a thriving regional centre capable of hosting high-calibre events at state-of-the-art sporting facilities.”

Some of the best female talent the Northern Rivers region has produced will take part this year.

NSW all-rounder Sammy-Jo Johnson and former Queensland captain and Fire player of the year Georgia Redmayne will be among them.

They will be joined by women’s Big Bash players Ebony Hoskin and Claire Moore, while rising Northern Rivers youngsters Cooper Williams and Joe Parsons will play.

Gilchrist and Lismore mayor Steve Krieg will captain the teams.

“The calibre of players putting their hands up to be part of this is phenomenal. Thank you to all the players for taking the time to showcase their skills at our very own Oakes Oval,” Krieg said.

“While I can’t wait to win and show Gilly’s XI who’s boss, I’m genuinely excited about what this event means for Lismore.

“Our community deserves this celebration, and I can’t wait to see everyone there.”

Gates open at 1pm with the game starting at 3pm. Tickets are available at www.oztix.com.au.

Earlier in the day, juniors aged 5–14 years old can take part in the Legends of Cricket junior clinic.

The clinic runs from 8.30am–noon.

For more information, email [email protected].