General News
12 October, 2022
Hay captains Australia
TYSON Hay’s lifelong dream of captaining the Australian Deaf Men’s Cricket side came to fruition in Dubai last week.
TYSON Hay’s lifelong dream of captaining the Australian Deaf Men’s Cricket side came to fruition in Dubai last week.
Fresh from a 13-hour flight home on Tuesday, the Terang Cricket Club leader said he was thrilled to have led his national team to victory during one of five T20 matches played last week as part of the DICC (Deaf International Cricket Council) Championship Trophy.
“It was a fantastic experience; I’ve been vice-captain for the last three tours and really didn’t think I would ever captain a side,” Hay said.
“When I was told that morning they were resting our captain and it was my turn I was absolutely thrilled.”
The Australians were initially set to play four countries during the championships – South Africa, India, Bangladesh and Pakistan, however Pakistan was a late withdrawal as floods prohibited the side from flying to Dubai.
“Our games were all really close and played in conditions I’d never experienced before; it was very hot and humid, with the temperature reaching about 38 degrees each day.
“We lost to South Africa by about 17 runs and then to India by about 30/40 runs but managed a win against Bangladesh which also happened to be the game I was captain so that was pretty special.”
Hay said the team was chasing a 142-run total and managed to get there with just four balls to go.
“I was also lucky enough to be involved in the winning runs so that just capped off a great day.”
The win put the Australians into the semi-final – also played against Bangladesh – but unfortunately their winning streak ended there.
“The semi-final was also a close one but unfortunately we didn’t quite get over the line. The pitch really suited our slow bowlers but as a fast-paced I found it difficult to get into the groove,” Hay said
“Nevertheless it was a great experience and one I’ll cherish for a long time to come.”
As a result of the world-wide pandemic, last week’s global T20 tournament for deaf cricketers was the first in almost four years - with the last one staged in India.
Australian coach Jason Mathers congratulated the squad on its resilience and perseverance.
“They are fantastic players and their disability isn’t a factor at all,” Mathers was quoted as saying.
“They find a way around it, they work really hard and they are terrific cricketers.”
Now back on home soil, Hay is focused on his Terang side and its first-round match against Woorndoo this weekend.
“I haven’t taken a look at the weather forecast yet but hopefully the conditions will be right for play on Saturday,” Hay said.
“I’m looking forward to playing in cooler conditions that’s for sure.”