Imparja Cup trials

In a Twenty20 double header, 22 Indigenous cricketers from the Noogal Toengorrt Tani program will showcase their skills against Malvern and Donvale cricket clubs.

“The trial matches will give us the chance to see some fresh talent and will allow the boys to put their best foot forward for Imparja Cup selection,” Victorian captain Ben Abbatangelo said.

“It’s also great to see Donvale and Malvern getting involved and showing their support for Indigenous cricket.

“We really appreciate the time they have given us.”

Over the past few months, the Noogal program has expanded in participants, providing more opportunities and a wider selection of Indigenous cricketers in Victoria.

“Cricket Victoria has made a conscious effort to identify more Indigenous cricketers across the state and their hard work has really started paid off,” Abbatangelo said.

In the lead up to the national tournament, the squad will continue to compete in a number of trial matches.

Along with Sunday’s games, the squad will also face Victoria Police in a Twenty20 at next month’s Melbourne Stars Family Day.

“We are looking to go that one step further at this year’s Imparja Cup, so our preparation becomes crucial,” Abbatangelo said.

The trial games will commence at 10:30am on Sunday at Donvale Reserve.

Noogal Toengorrt Tani vs Malvern CC
Ben Abbatangelo (Northcote CC)
Josh Eaton (Essendon CC)
Damon Egan (Melbourne CC)
John Green (Plenty CC)
Alex Kerr (Greenvale CC)
Daniel Mock (Woori Yallock CC)
Kody Welsh (Airport West St Christophers)
Fletcher Stewart (Essendon CC)
Alex Williamson (Dennis CC)
Travis King (Warrenbayne CC)
Wade King (Warrenbayne CC)

Noogal Toengorrt Tani vs Donvale CC
Ben Abbatangelo (Northcote CC)
Grant Bell (Wendouree CC)
Tyler Boots (Highton CC)
Barry Firebrace (Keon Park CC)
Nathan Gardiner (Whittlesea CC)
Sandy Hodge (Homers CC)
Patrick Jackson (Pines CC)
Liam Jackson (Pines CC)
Brenden Miller (Lara CC)
Troy Oakley (Newborough Bulldogs CC)
Nikoda Brooking (South Warrandyte Hawks CC)
Dylan Harvey (Dennis CC)