The Belt Up Integrated Cricket League (ICL) wrapped up on the weekend with the finals being played at the WACA Ground.
An important tournament that celebrates inclusion in sport, the ICL provides the opportunity for people with a disability to play community cricket in an environment that is suitable for their needs.
The ICL includes Youth and Senior division pathways which will help build participation pathways and increase their engagement with the wider community.
The 2022-23 tournament included Senior, Youth, and A-Grade leagues, with the A-Grade final a re-match of the 2021-22 decider between Applecross and North Perth.
The result was also the same with North Perth once again defeating Applecross, this year by 11 runs.
North Perth batted first with David Hallows leading the way with 40 not-out, followed by Hayden Theriault who was run out for 16.
A total of 140 was enough to take the win, with Applecross finishing on 129.
Nick Rogerson (31) and Sean McGowan (21) proved a formidable pairing for Applecross but were both bowled by Boyd Duffield who took four wickets on the day.
The Senior and Youth teams converged on the WACA Ground last Sunday for a round-robin finals day with 18 teams across both divisions playing on the iconic pitch.
Secret Harbour Dockers Cricket Club took top honours in the Senior League, with Bateman Junior Dockers Cricket Club victorious in Youth League.
A total of 20 teams lined up across Senior, Youth, and A-Grade divisions.
WA Cricket Inclusion and Diversity Specialist Jade Wyllie said the Belt Up Integrated Cricket League provides unparalleled opportunities to those with disabilities to immerse themselves in the sport they love.
“The Integrated Cricket League is an integral tournament in the inclusivity space and it is wonderful to be able to provide a competition that meets the needs of the community,” Wyllie said.
“We understand how important it is to grow participation and provide accessible pathways to get people of all ages engaged with cricket and we are strong in our commitment in this space.
“Congratulations to all clubs and participants involved in the ICL, and we look forward to further growing the competition throughout the 2023-24 season.”
The Belt Up Integrated Cricket League, supported by the Insurance Commission of Western Australia and the WA Cricket Foundation, is a key part of the community cricket landscape across WA.
It offers an accessible format of cricket for people with disability to join teams and participate in club life, and the Insurance Commission funds enabling equipment for the ICL and its players.