Local talent mixing with the best

Already a star, Ashley Chandrasinghe is turning heads in the Top End for the NT Strike. 231267 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

By Nick Creely

A host of local emerging stars are mixing in with some of the country’s elite cricketers with the Northern Territory Top End Series kicking off Sunday.

The three match series played between the NT Strike and Cricket Australia XI- which involves 50-over matches, including two day/night fixtures – features some of the best young players in the country.

NT Cricket CEO Joel Morrison said it was an exciting time for cricket in the Territory with the return of representative cricket.

“The Chamber NT Top End Series is an important part of our Cricket 365 program as it provides an opportunity for our players, coaches and match officials to represent their community,“ he said.

“We’re delighted to see representative cricket back in the Territory and we can’t wait to see our NT Strike in action against quality opposition.

“One of the great features of the NT Strike is that it enables young emerging players like Ryan Harvey from Southern Districts to play alongside established professional cricketers such as Jake Weatherald and Tom Andrews, as well as accomplished premier grade players like Luke Zanchetta and Troy Ryan from Darwin.”

And the south-east has plenty of representation in the series which is generating plenty of interest around the country.

Boom Casey-South Melbourne opening batsman Ashley Chandrasinghe kicked off the series in style on the weekend, whacking a classy 86 from 111 balls for NT Strike in what was a thrilling tied match.

The left-hander – taking on state quicks Chris Tremain (WA) and Liam Guthrie (NSW) – once again put his name up in lights for selection at the elite level in the near future with the commanding knock which anchored the chase.

He’s putting together yet another commanding Victorian off-season campaign in the NT, racking up the runs as he prepares for a huge Premier Cricket season with the Swans. He’s undoubtedly one of the most impressive young prospects in the state.

Also featuring for NT Strike is new Springvale South all-rounder Blade Baxter, who was mighty impressive through the middle overs with 3/37 from his 10 overs.

Exciting Berwick-product Reiley Mark, who plays his cricket with Richmond, is playing for the Cricket Australia XI, took 1/49 with his spin on the day, while his club teammate Zac Sleeman is also getting his opportunities through the middle order.

Game two of the NT Top End Series begins on Wednesday 4 August (today) from 1:30pm, with the clash to be streamed on MyCricket. The final match will be played on Sunday 8 August.