He's the type of cricketer you expect to go far and Connor Whale is certainly on his way.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Mudgee local was recently named in the under 16s Western Zone Bradman Cup team, something many aspire to achieve.
Playing the sport since a young age, typically in the backyard with his family, Connor has always been involved with cricket and he wouldn't have it any other way.
The handy bowler has represented at various levels throughout his young career and says having played in the Kookaburra Cup (under 14s Western Zone team) two years ago, he feels somewhat prepared for what is in store over the three day long competition.
"Dad is heavily involved in cricket, he's the one who got me into playing cricket," he said.
"I played in a similar competition (Kookaburra Cup) a couple of years ago, I really didn't know what to expect at the beginning.
"The competition is basically the Country Championships for under 16s cricketers across NSW, it's a pretty high level of competition. It's great to be playing with and against players who have made junior Australian teams.
It is an absolute honour and privilege to be a part of the Western Zone team, especially when you are competing against players from much larger, cricket dominated towns for a spot in the team.
- Connor Whale
Although nerves are natural given the intensity of the carnival, Whale says when it comes to bowling, he's confident in his own ability to get the job done.
"I'm predominantly a bowler so I'm much more comfortable with the ball in my hand. My batting is ok, though I have been struggling a bit with it lately, it certainly isn't my strength. But I like to go out onto the field and try and set a good example for the younger players.
- READ MORE: Cricketers let a big chance slip
"Cricket is a very big part of my life, from playing to coaching and mentoring young junior cricketers in Mudgee. I love every moment of it and wouldn't have it any other way."
Connor is the only Mid-Western player in the line-up for the Western Zone alongside Angus Parsons (Bathurst), Anthony Atlee (Dubbo), Bailey Edwards (Grenfell), Edward Murray (Dubbo), Fletcher Hyde (Dubbo), Hugh Sienkiewicz (Dubbo), Jack Fuller (Dubbo), Lachlan Rummans (Dubbo), Riley Keen (Condobolin), Rudy Peet (Dubbo), Ryan Goodsell (Condobolin) and Tyson Deebank (Nyngan).
The Bradman Cup under 16s NSW Cricket Country Championship Carnival will be played in Albury on January 5-7, 2021.
Jay-Anna Sleeman
Reporter for the Western Advocate. First began as a sports journalist with ACM in 2018 before moving on to cover news and court.
Reporter for the Western Advocate. First began as a sports journalist with ACM in 2018 before moving on to cover news and court.
