Charlie’s backyard cricket match wins backing from ANZ

PHOTO: Charlie Ferguson – Palmerston North Boys High School

Thirteen-year-old Palmerston North Boys’ High School student Charlie Ferguson’s backyard community cricket match received a boost when he was awarded a huge team sized kit of new gear from the ANZ Cricket Grant programme.

ANZ’s cricket grant programme gives New Zealand cricket players, teams and schools the chance to apply for sponsorship to help them with their game. “I’m super excited to try out the gear at our game next season,” said Charlie.

Charlie said his community at Waitarere Beach had a tough year in 2020, and he wanted to bring everyone together and start the new year with a bang by hosting a backyard cricket match on New Year’s Day. He set up a pitch in his backyard, sent out an open invitation and the adults vs kids game began with just a tennis ball and a plastic bat.

“It’s an amazing way to bring the community together. I hope this new gear will help the kids win this time,” said Charlie.

Charlie has had a busy cricket season playing for the top Year 9 team at Palmerston North Boys High and the Manawatu Under 14 team. He also plans to use this gear to level up his training and aim for the top teams again next season. “I get motivated by my really good team mates,” said Charlie.

Head of Sponsorship at ANZ, Sue McGregor, said “we love sport here at ANZ and the positive life lessons it provides. Providing quality gear to young players is a step towards helping them achieve their sporting dreams and it’s wonderful to play a part in that.