FREEMANS Reach cricketer Michael Gillies has returned from the National Cricket Inclusion Championships, which ran in Geelong from January 16 to 20.
Gillies has Asperger’s Syndrome and captained the New South Wales side which played at the tournament.
Gillies said he had a great time at the tournament, which ended for NSW when they were defeated by Victoria in the semi-finals.
“It was a good experience. We played six games in four days, it was pretty intense but I thoroughly enjoyed it,” he said.
“It was challenging, I opened the batting and usually I am much further down the order, but I think I did alright.”
He said he only knew a couple of players in the 13-man squad before the tournament.
“I had met a couple of them through indoor cricket, but most of them I didn't really know beforehand,” he said.
“Everyone wanted to do their best and it was a good experience to play with them all.”
Gillies said the highlight of the tournament was when the vice-captain of NSW took 5-12, including a hat-trick, against Western Australia.
Gillies added he was hoping to be selected for the Australian team, which would travel to the UK and play against England and South Africa.
“I am holding out hope but if you don't get it that is alright,” he said.
