Whyalla’s first ever T20 Twilight Spectacular has been hailed a resounding success, with hundreds of people gathering to witness history in the making.
Held on Friday night, the free event acted as the official opening of the upgraded facilities.
Around 800 people gathered under mild weather conditions in a relaxed atmosphere, supporting local T20 teams playing back-to-back cricket games under lights for the first time at Bennett Oval.
Kristen Clark, Council’s Director Infrastructure, said that the event was symbolic as it heralded the start of a new sporting era for Whyalla and the region.
“Bennett Oval now boasts the brightest lighting facility in regional South Australia and the second brightest outside of Adelaide Oval.
“Representatives from the South Australian Cricket Association (SACA) were there on the night and they were really impressed with the facility.
“We’re now well-placed to potentially host high-level night football, cricket and other sporting competitions, including the AFLW and WBBL, right here in Whyalla” Mr Clark said.
The afternoon kicked off with the ‘Come and Try’ Woolworths Cricket Blast pop up clinic with around 60 children aged from 5-10 years taking part.
Then it was time for North Whyalla and West Whyalla to take to the field , followed by Roopena facing off against Central Whyalla.
Mr Clark paid tribute to those who have worked tirelessly to bring the grounds up to such a high standard, saying that it was a team effort that has really paid off.
“I’d like to thank the community for supporting the first local T20 Spectacular under lights’ Mr Clark said.
“I’d also like to acknowledge the ongoing partnership between Whyalla City Council, SACA and the Whyalla Cricket Association.
“This is truly a facility of which the whole community can be proud.”
