Adrian Garnero loves cricket, but some days he regrets introducing his two sons to the sport.
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Matthew, 14, and Josh, 10, are both keen cricketers who attempt to spend almost every moment playing the sport, much to Adrian’s chagrin at times.
Matthew was introduced to cricket through Milo Cricket as a four-year-old and has impressed many with both his talent and attitude as he has grown up.
His ability, both batting and bowling, was on display two weeks ago as he scored 88 runs with the bat before claiming figures of 6/22 with the ball in Illawarra’s under 15 representative fixture against Northern District.
For Garnero, however, the most exciting aspect of the performance was his team winning the match.
“It made me feel very good,” Garnero said.” It was great that we won the game, puts us in a strong position to make the finals.”
The team will qualify for the finals should they defeat Camden on Sunday.
Adrian was proud of his son’s performance and said it was the result of a lot of hard work at training and in the backyard with Josh.
“It was fantastic, he had been on a bit of a slump and came back with an excellent knock and backed it up with the ball and even took a catch as well.” Adrian said.
Matthew, who idolises Australian batsmen David Warner and Steve Smith, hopes to follow in their footsteps and one day don the Baggy Green.
He has made promising early steps, having been selected in the NSW junior talent academy earlier this year.
“It was greatl. It helped me get ready for the season, improved my technique, which was good.” Matthew said.
“It also got me focused on what I have to do during the season to keep improving.”
Despite being just 14 years of age, Matthew has also represented Keira in grade cricket this season.
“He’s been playing a couple of games for second grade this year, it’s an ongoing opportunity for him.” Adrian said. “He absolutely loves it, he’s looking to blast through there as well. He’s only 14, so its an excellent opportunity for him to improve.”