Bowral Blues Cricket Club enjoyed a proud milestone on Saturday as senior players, club leaders and sponsors gathered at Bradman Oval to mark the club's return to the Highlands First Grade competition.
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Five years since the Blues last played in the Firsts comp, the squad was keen to suit up in their new Blues training gear and playing stripes for the first time.
The squad consists of experienced and younger players who have worked their way up through the club's junior ranks.
Blues president Ian Pope said it was a special occasion for all.
"A lot of work's gone into arranging a Firsts side, which is a fantastic step forward for not only Bowral Blues Cricket Club, but Highlands cricket overall," Ian said.
Club and Firsts captain, Brett McAulay, said a key would be rotating younger players through the squad to ensure experience and longevity.
"We've had strong registrations across out Firsts, Seconds and Third squads, giving us scope to mix and match where appropriate," Brett said.
"It was quite a buzz to finally step out in our new gear, on Bradman Oval no less, even though rain struck and saw the match abandoned.
"But it was a chance to show that the Blues are back, and we couldn't be prouder."
Blues leaders made special mention of Jessie Robertson from Stone Real Estate, who's gone above and beyond to fund not only the club's Firsts uniforms, but also junior uniforms, in addition to providing general financial support.
Jessie heard that first-hand from the Firsts squad, as the players took to the field for match warm-ups.
"Cricket lovers across the Highlands are so happy that Bowral Blues, the friendly club, are back in the Firsts game," Jessie said.
"The vibe is wonderful. A really good thing is this gives Blues junior something to aspire to in future seasons, including my own sons who play in the club's junior ranks."
Jessie's next investment is donating $500 to the club for every property she lists that is referred by a member, family member of friend of the club.
Although rain interrupted and ultimately stopped the match against Bowral Cricket Club, the Blues showed some good early form.
Winning the toss, the Blues chose to bat first, and put on 61 runs by the 17th over. McAulay led the charge with 30 runs, supported by fellow opener Cory Fitzgerald, and Craig Rheynolds and Roop Sharma at three and four. Wickets went to Bowral's Alex Deane and Patrick Jackson.
Meanwhile, Bowral Blues Stage 2B junior player Jeremy Rope had a spell he and few others will not quickly forget against Bundanoon at Exeter Oval. Beyond bagging a hat-trick, 13-year-old Jeremy clocked up five wickets in four overs, steering his side to victory.
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