The naming of the Womens Veterans sides (Ashes and Cinders), are in keeping with our state representative sides (Fire and Heat), and reflect age related progressions on the theme…
The inaugural Ashes side surprised our more fancied interstate competitors with an unbeaten run (in both T20 and T35 formats), to the finals in 2023. The Ashes won a close final against NSW to take the shield home for Division 1. This could not have been achieved without the considerable financial support offered by Queensland Veterans Cricket, Bullsmasters and our uniform sponsor CPAP Direct. The invaluable support of partners and players who scored and transported the team must be acknowledged for both time and financial contributions.
The Ashes returned to successfully defend the Division 1 National title in Adelaide, SA, 2024. The side remained unbeaten, routing NSW again in the final with more than an over to spare. This year also saw the inaugural Division 2 Queensland representatives – The Cinders, debut. Selection followed a similar pathway to Division 1 selection, with a focus on broad geographical representation. Local trials were very well attended with triallers from as far afield as Toowoomba attending the Caloundra Indoor facility. The Cinders finished a commendable 3rd in the hotly contested Division 2 competition, gathering interstate fans along the way with their sportsmanship and enthusiasm. Three of The Ashes were named in the 2024 Team of the Tournament: Eleanor Swanepoel, Sharon Guest and Kylie White.
The back to back titles for the Ashes comes thanks to the commitment and hard-work of so many. The QLD over 40’s women have a squad of 28, and a Coach (current premier cricket and representative coach, TJ Randall) was appointed in 2024. Retired International Nicola Browne and state representative TJ Randall continued duties as co-captains of the 14 person Ashes squad, and Christie Lewis took the helm of The Cinders. Our success can be attributed to a strong team chemistry and cohesion, and the effective game planning and strategic adaptations made by our leaders.
On a serious note, the growth of veterans womens cricket in Queensland will continue to be limited by financial and time constraints that are inherent in a group of women who are largely full time employed and primary carers for dependent children and parents. Representative cricket in this state has the additional challenge of geography that must be addressed to avoid ‘Brisbane-centric’ selections that can stymie growth. The financial support offered by our supporters and sponsors has enabled the successful establishment of a model in women’s cricket that accommodates both participation and performance – critical elements for growth in this cohort in Queensland.
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