At Knox City Cricket Club, it’s not just about playing cricket — it’s about creating a community.
With the help of Council support, the club has launched its first women’s cricket team in 50 years. In their debut season, the newly formed Tigers went on to win the premiership in their grade.
Club secretary Nilakshi Perera says the success of the team is just the beginning.
“Aside from our captain and one other player, none of us had played cricket before,” she says. “We all truly appreciate not just playing cricket but also the friendships we’ve formed. It’s about women empowering women, lifting each other and creating a supportive space where we inspire more women to step forward, give it a go and be part of something bigger.”
Nilakshi says the club welcomes beginners. “Because we started from scratch, anyone new to the game is more than welcome to join us. We understand exactly what it’s like to be a beginner and are here to support them every step of the way.”
She adds that the premiership isn’t the most important win. “Our bond is more important than the premiership — that is the best thing we got out of it.”
A Council Minor Grant helped fund the women’s team and will also be used to establish a second team next season.
“The premiership team is moving up a grade, and we’ll be starting a development team so people who’ve never played before can try cricket and have a taste of it,” Nilakshi says.
Vice-captain Raj Sharma travels from Craigieburn each week to play for the team.
“It means something if I’m happy to travel that far every week to be in the team, just to support each other and to play,” she says.
Raj took out both Champion Player and Highest Wicket Taker awards last season.
Player Savithri Cooray originally came to the club to support her husband but soon found herself on the pitch.
“I just came to watch but then I met Nilakshi,” she says. “I had the chance to learn new things like bowling and batting. A lot goes on behind the scenes in each game, everyone has a role to play. This team shares a special bond and we will forever be close friends. Lifelong friendships are the best thing I got out of this sport.”
The team also plays indoor cricket during the off-season to keep the momentum going.
To join Knox City Cricket Club, visit knoxcitycricketclub.com.au or email knoxcitycc@hotmail.com.
