PORTLAND cricketer Macey Williamson has been making a big impression on the country cricket scene this season, having recently made the Western Waves’ under-15 side while also making the Geelong Pumas team which will play in the upcoming Marg Jennings Cup early next year.
The Pumas are a representative club which is part of the female under-15 pathway towards the elite level of cricket and compete Cup which runs for over one week in January.
Players in the side will provide the opportunity to face off against opponents from prestigious clubs such as Melbourne Cricket Club, Carlton Cricket Club and plenty more across five rounds of competition along with a grand final.
The cup begins on January 16 and wraps up on January 25.
Williamson, who will line up for Portland Colts in the Portland and District Cricket Association’s under-16 competition, said she’s been pleased with the opportunities that have popped up in recent times.
“I went to one of (the Pumas) trainings, but I didn’t go to any tryouts… but one day mum just got a phone call, and they asked if I wanted to come play with them,” Williamson said.
“I do feel like it’s been a long time coming… I’ve waited a bit for my opportunity but I’m ready to take it on.”
In the short term, the 14-year-old said she wants to make some more runs “to get the average up there” as she gears up for next year’s competition.
“There will be Victorian selectors around at (the Cup) so it would be great to showcase my skills on that stage,” she said.
“It’s in Melbourne and across a couple of days, so there will be opportunities to make the most of.”
A solid all-rounder, Macey has impressed Waves coaches – most notably senior coach Chloe MacKenzie – with her ability to bowl a variety of different deliveries with swing and seam while also being a rock-solid bat.
“She’s really coachable and ready to learn… she’ll go a long way if she keeps at it,” MacKenzie said.
“She was late into the programs, but her talent was immediately apparent, we’re really glad to have picked her up.”
