EVERYBODY needs a physical and mental outlet, and Carrie Barlow knows that more than most.
As a coordinator for COVID-19 vaccination clinics at Buronga’s Midway Centre and Wentworth Town Hall, it has been a busy last 12 months or so for Barlow and her team.
Come Friday nights however, Barlow has loved returning to the cricket field.
Playing her first season in two years following a torn Achilles, the batter has enjoyed joining up with new club Merbein South as the Saints look to lock in the Sunraysia Cricket Association Premier Women’s minor premiership.
Barlow starred last Friday night, retired not out after smacking 35 against Irymple from just 16 deliveries, with the knock including three fours and three sixes.
It was enough to earn her the nod as the latest Premier Women’s Player of the Round.
“I’ve just come back to playing cricket from a two-year break from tearing my Achilles, so it’s taken me a few weeks to get back into the swing of it but it felt like it was a lot better this week,” she said.
“We’re on top of the ladder, hopefully stay there and get through to the grand final.
“I think as a team this year we’ve been pretty relaxed and put the focus on enjoyment and there hasn’t been any focus on winning, just having some fun. Our captain Tara Martin has been big on that.
“This is my first year at the club and they’ve been very welcoming, even the men’s teams have been really good. They’ve been great at training and always keen to lend a hand.”
Barlow said the impact of COVID-19 meant many people had been getting less incidental exercise than usual, and suggested cricket was a great way to have that physical, mental and social outlet.
“I was convinced to play six years ago by my friends for a one-off and it went from there,” she said.
“It’s a good way to get out and get some exercise and for the mental health side of things, being part of a team and a club and making friends.
“I encourage all girls and women to come out and play sport, and to give cricket a go.
“You don’t have to be the fastest and fittest or the youngest, I’m definitely the oldest in the team but it makes no difference at all. I still get along with the 11-year-olds we have playing for us.”
As the Premier Women’s Player of the Round, Barlow receives a $40 voucher from the Coomealla Memorial Sporting Club.
