Mannix-Geeves stars at National Indigenous Championships

Mannix-Geeves, who hails from Launceston but represented Victoria at the championships, scored 288 runs and took 5 wickets during the tournament.

The women’s division grand final saw New South Wales defeat Victoria by 46 runs claiming their 12th straight title in the red centre.

Batting first at Albrecht Oval, New South Wales started well with the Hobart Hurricanes’ Mikayla Hinkley (43) and the experienced Sara Darney (27) leading the way. With the loss of Hinkley and Darney, Anika Learoyd (60*) and Roxy Van-Veen (24*) carried their bats to guide their team to finish at 2/168 (20).

With a huge chase ahead of them, Victoria lost both openers early. Despite losing regular wickets, player of the NICC, Emma Manix-Geeves found regular boundaries on her way to 65 (48). Tight bowling from Hannah Darlington (2/11) and Julie Muir (2/27) restricted the Victorian’s, and when Manix-Geeves fell for 65, it was all over; Victoria finishing at 9/122 (20).

Cricket Victoria’s Community Engagement Specialist Lachlan Harris was quick to provide perspective after the final,

“The 2019 NICC has been a fantastic carnival, not only from a cricket point of view, but from a community perspective bringing together male and female indigenous crickets from across the country” he said

“…whilst unsuccessful they will leave with fond memories of Alice Springs and a greater connection with each other and become role models for indigenous cricketers across the state”

Tayla Wig was named Fielder of the Tournament with 5 stumpings and 3 catches, while Jacinta Goodger-Chandler received a Black Cap alongside Mannix-Geeves for an excellent all-round performance.

Nicholas Boland was the standout performer in the men’s division, winning Player of the Tournament and Batter of the Tournament. He compiled 269 runs at an average of 89.67 to go with 6 wickets at an average of 15. He also received a Black Cap for his outstanding form across the tournament.

In the men’s division final, New South Wales defeated Queensland by 8 wickets.