Newman’s combine as Rhys and Riley make their debut

By Aiden Box

YOUNG stars Rhys Newman and Riley Harris made their A grade debuts on the weekend for Inverloch in their match against OMK at Inverloch Recreation Reserve. 

The talented pair have earned their selection after a sensational season last summer in the under 15s, taking the Stingrays to a Grand Final. 

Inverloch captain coach David Newman spoke to the Sentinel-Times pre-match about what caught his eye when looking to select the two debutants. 

“Riley is an exceptional batsman, he does it in juniors and even at representative level and Rhys is the same with bat and ball,” he said. 

Perhaps the most special element of the double debutant’s selection was that Rhys will play his first A grade game alongside his dad.

The Newman’s gave their thoughts on the special occasion.

“It’s pretty special to play with your son, I’m looking forward to it, it’s something you never think is going to happen but he’s come along well enough for me to give him a chance,” David said.

“Yeah, it’s pretty good to get the opportunity and hopefully we can get the win,” said Rhys. 

The two first gamers are no strangers to Saturday afternoon cricket having performed brilliantly for the Stingrays C grade side last season. 

Riley finished fourth in the batting rankings making 132 runs batting in the top order, he also kept wicket and took some great catches and stumpings, he also even played a number of B grade games. 

Rhys finished second in the bowling with 11 wickets and was also amongst the best with the bat, a terrific achievement for the up-and-coming allrounder. 

It is clear the two young Stingrays have loads of talent, but coach Newman also had praise for their work ethic and enthusiasm. 

“Both are very committed cricketers, so it was inevitable that it was going to happen in 12 months’ time but obviously our unavailability’s this week have landed them an early opportunity so I’m looking forward to seeing what they can do,” he said. 

The Stingrays fielded a young and exciting side for the matchup with the Diggers, as Rhys and Riley slotted in next to second gamer Harry Butcher who is also a member of Inverloch’s under 17s side. 

Rhys, Riley and the Stingrays fielded first in the match, bowling magnificently to dismiss OMK for 86, neither of the debutants were required with the ball, although they were sensational in the field, they may be called on this Saturday in the run chase, with their side needing a further 46 to win.