Mathieson reflects as Renegades Recruit returns

TWENTY20 club Melbourne Renegades has put the call out to local cricketers for its in-house reality TV show after one of Geelong’s own took home the win during last year’s inaugural season.

‘Renegades Recruit’ applications for season two closed last Sunday, but season one winner and North Geelong Cricket Club captain Tom Mathieson said it was the experience of a lifetime and is hopeful many local cricketers threw their names in.

“You’ve got to do it if you have the chance, you’d be silly not to,” Mathieson urged.

“You never know what could come out of an opportunity like this and if you’re lucky enough to get picked to the final three you’re laughing.

“Enjoy the day, enjoy the experience, and given I was lucky enough to win it last year, I’ll be involved with the next season in some way which is great.”

Renegades Recruit’s second season will include a female edition in conjunction with the male’s, taking on a slightly different format.

This year’s Renegades Recruit will take on a similar approach for the male edition compared to 2021’s season, searching for the best players in community cricket from around the state with the potential to play at a higher level.

The female edition will focus on the ‘next best’ talent outside of the WBBL in Victoria.

Players at the Premier and local level will fill the pool of talent that believes it has what it takes to compete with the best.

“It was such a surprise after I got the call to attend on the day,” Mathieson said.

“Once you’re there it’s very overwhelming, but very exciting at the same time, you’ve just got to take it in your stride and give it your best shot.

“I know a few boys from the local area have been nominated, it will be great to see them getting involved.”

The winner of each competition will be determined by a public vote between the final three players after a day of shooting/training on June 19 (female) and July 3 (male) at CitiPower Centre in Melbourne.

Male and female winners will receive “a unique high-performance opportunity with the Renegades to develop their cricket”.

To keep up to date with season two of Renegades Recruit head to www.melbournerenegades.com.au.