Moriarty Park sportsperson of the month for the March Nomination went to Bushrats Over 40’s Cricket Team.
The Bushrats have undergone a remarkable transformation this year, emerging from being the “whipping boys” of the competition to being crowned champions after finishing as runners-up last season. With a commitment to enjoyment and community spirit, the team has demonstrated that cricket is just as much about friendship and laughter as it is about competition
The Bushrats not only excel on the field; they embody a spirit of camaraderie and support. Two team members who are transplant recipients inspire the squad with their determination, and the whole team rallies around them each matchday.
This season marks the first for the Alec Hill as Captain after coming out of retirement at age 51. The joy of playing cricket for fun, akin to childhood days, has made this experience truly rewarding.
As the Bushrats aim for excellence not just in scores but in camaraderie, they aspire to be a formidable team to face while also being one everyone enjoys playing against.
Team Roster:
- Clive Revis
- Craig Mann
- Dean Patterson
- Jack Bradshaw
- Cole Fletcher
- Alec Hill (Captain)
- Glenn Barker
- Mick Legg
- Wave Beach
- Steve Arthy
- Sean Butler
- 12th Man: Daryl Zaffiro
- 13th Man: Danny Edser
Season Highlights:
• The Bushrats finished a game clear at the top of the ladder, suffering only one loss throughout the season against Burleigh.
• The team showcased their batting prowess by scoring over 200 runs in an innings on three occasions—an impressive feat that set them apart from other teams in the competition.
• In the semi-final against Burleigh, played on a challenging wet wicket, the Bushrats clinched victory by four wickets with just seven balls remaining, showcasing their resilience and determination.
Key Performers:
• Clive Revis: Consistently among the top run-scorers in the league and pivotal in the semi-final victory.
• Dean Patterson: The team’s all-rounder, taking the most wickets of the season while also contributing significantly with the bat and behind the stumps.
• Jack Bradshaw: A reliable performer who batted consistently and finished just one wicket shy of Dean.
• Wave Beach: Opening the bowling, Wave provided solid starts and contributed lower-order runs, proving his value to the squad.
Additionally, special mentions go to:
• Cole Fletcher: The team’s dedicated groundsman, who faced the challenges of a rainy season in Mount Tamborine with great effort.
• Sean Butler: In a nail-biting finish, Sean scored a crucial boundary with two balls to spare, sealing a win against the top-of-the-ladder team and sending the Bushrats to the top of the standings!
In summary, it’s a team game where every player contributes, and the Bushrats Over 40’s have illustrated this ethos wonderfully throughout their extraordinary season.
