Leschenault Cricket Club pair representing WA in national 12 and under championships in Darwin

A pair of young Australind cricket players are facing off against their interstate counterparts in a national tournament this week.

Leschenault Cricket Club players Jay Pfoeffer and Thomas Hinchcliffe, both 12, are in Darwin as part of the School Sport WA 12 and under boys cricket team, playing against teams from across the country.

The youngsters have been in the top end since Friday.

Speaking before their departure, Jay said he was very excited to be competing in the tournament.

“It will be good facing the best in Australia,” she said.

The duo have been playing cricket for about seven years and got selected for the team after being noticed by State coaches during Country Week.

Asked what he liked the most about playing cricket, Thomas said “just getting around each other and taking some wickets”.

It has been a big commitment for the pair, taking their place on the team and going up to Perth for training each week in the lead-up to the tournament.

The bowlers are the only representatives from regional Western Australia on the team.

It is set to be a big year for the pair, with each set to play for Rockingham-Mandurah in the upcoming summer’s WA Premier Cricket league.

As for their future playing directions, both players want to eventually play seniors for the Green Caps or go even further.

They thanked those who had helped them get this far, including their families.

“I am just grateful for the (cricket) club and the great opportunities we have,” Thomas said.