Teen shines on the national stage

BREAKING down barriers and playing on the national stage has been a dream come true for cricket-loving teenager Seb Mirana.

He is only 17 and has now represented the Queensland intellectual disability team at the National Cricket Inclusion Championships at Brisbane.

Proud mother Belinda Mirana said Seb had previously been restricted to watching the game from home at Kingscliff.

He only started playing cricket a few years ago with the Alberton Ormeau club on the Gold Coast.

He is now the co-captain of the inclusion team and has developed his skills as a batsman.

Coach Alex Wells has overseen his development and suggested he try out for the Queensland ID team.

“It was a huge surprise, he’s still learning the game,” Belinda Mirana said.

“He loves watching the cricket, he knows every player and what they do in the game.

“To be able to do something like this is really special.

“The biggest thing he had to get used to was playing for Queensland instead of New South Wales.

“It was easier for us to get him to Queensland and all the trainings that they held over December and January.”

Teams from across the country took part in the event, with Queensland finishing fourth after a semi-final appearance.

Australian cricket legend Steve Waugh was at the carnival and helped the blind team throughout the week.

Seb said he was thrilled to be part of the event and that he plans to keep training for future events.

Former NSW Sheffield Shield spinner Anthony Kershler has taken him under his wing with some additional coaching.

Kershler has played with Cudgen in the Far North Coast competition in recent years along with his son Harry.

Harry, a talented representative player in the teenage ranks, also helped Seb in the lead-up to the national carnival.

Queensland Bulls fast bowler Luke Feldman presented Seb with his playing cap at a special ceremony before the first game.

“It was a fantastic week, Cricket Australia really looked after them with ice baths after the game and that sort of thing,” Belinda said.

“Everyone was cheering each other on and there was a great atmosphere.

“Watching the blind players was an incredible experience and hopefully they can keep growing the game with more events.”