Council Administrator Dr Ian Tiley said that the cricket association is a valued part of the community providing a competition, training facilities and grounds for players from six years of age to much more senior members of the community.

“The funding of $11,500 is towards the purchase of a new roller - identified by the Club as their number one priority,” Dr Tiley said. “By supporting the Club to address this priority, Council is supporting them to meet the needs of their large community-based membership.”

The Stronger Communities Grants program is a one-off allocation from the State Government provided to Councils that have undertaken mergers in NSW.

Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall said even backyard cricketers would appreciate the value of a wicket roller – because every player worth his salt recognised that playing on a good turf wicket was the best game you could get.

“Armidale has seven turf wickets and while a synthetic wicket mightn’t need mowing, rolling, fertilising or watering – it’s the wicket any batsman or bowler wants to play on,” Mr Marshall said.

“So, for the association to get some great funding towards a new roller is like hitting a six or making a ton; it’s great news and every player will benefit from it.”

“Council is glad to be able to support worthwhile projects and especially those which bring long-term benefits to the community,” said Dr Tiley. “The Stronger Communities Funding has been a great chance for local clubs and not-for-profit organisations to apply for grants of up to $50,000. It is a great outcome that so many of our clubs and organisations have taken advantage of this.”