More than a cricket club

The raid resulted in a big clean up bill and the theft of thousands of dollars of cricket equipment and two televisions.

After seeing the story of the club’s story in the Whitehorse Leader, Cricket Victoria and the Melbourne Stars and gathered some equipment to donate to the club, including cones, stumps and autographed bats from the Commonwealth Bank Bushrangers and Stars.

Cricket Victoria’s sponsor Gray-Nicolls jumped on board to show their support for the club, donating Platypus cricket balls and a cricket bat.

Blackburn North Cricket Club acting president Samantha Rimmer said the club appreciated the support.

“Hopefully this means things are looking up for us and we can keep on going this season.”

Ms Rimmer said the club was grateful for the Box Hill Reporter District Cricket Association and other individuals who had expressed their support.

“Support like that makes us feel valued and like we’re not standing out there on our own.”

Cricket Victoria Regional Cricket Manager Shane Koop noted the importance of supporting local cricket clubs.

“A club like the Blackburn North CC are the life blood of the community,” Koop said.

“Our cricket clubs are so much more than just a place to play cricket, the health and wellbeing benefits far outweigh a cover drive or an out swinger.”

“Cricket Victoria will always look to support where we can with helping cricket clubs engage and or retain participants.”

“We hope that the items will assist with getting the Blackburn North CC back on track.”

Melbourne Stars Chief Executive Officer Clint Cooper also reinforced the club’s commitment to assisting grassroots cricket clubs.

“Blackburn North is a valued member of our Stars Club program. Cricket Clubs, like Blackburn North, create a sense of belonging within a community and it’s important for us to give back to them so that they can continue to thrive,” Cooper said.

“Our partners are also dedicated to supporting our cricket community. We would like to thank them for their contribution to Blackburn North.”

“We wish the club all the best for the rest of the season.”