FORMER baggy green international Mike Veletta has been confirmed as a marquee acquisition for the Sandgropers who will be representing Western Australia at the Global Spirit of Cricket Festivale in Mildura.
The 61-year-old batsmen will be gracing the wicket at MSP during the second week of competition for the over 50’s franchise-based T20 tournament scheduled to occur from September 25-30.
Appearing in eights Tests and 20 one day internationals, Veletta famously blasted 45 off 31 balls not out during the 1987 World Cup final in India, helping Australia to their first of six titles.
The relentless right-hander also carved out a glittering domestic career with Western Australia winning five Sheffield Shields and playing 114 matches in the competition.
Veletta is now relishing the opportunity to play his beloved game again when he makes his first trip to the capital of Sunraysia after communicating with Sandgropers director Todd Zani and managing director of the Spirit of Cricket Global Anthony Telfer.
“It was really opportune because Todd reached out and said there’s an opportunity to do this,” said Veletta.
“And then I spoke to Anthony after that, and it sounded pretty exciting.
“Obviously, it’s well organised, I thought that it makes a lot of sense and there’s so many of these tournaments around that I’m not 100 per cent aware of, so this is a great opportunity to get in there meeting lots of new people.
“I’ve never been to Mildura, I’m sure I’ll have a bit of fun and hopefully I can contribute.”
With a prolonged period away from the game, Veletta played a T20 match earlier this year.
“I haven’t really played a lot of cricket competitively or at any level for some time and playing in India recently probably whet my appetite again,” he said.
“I batted with my son, I did keep for 10 overs which was interesting, I might have a few net sessions before we get to Mildura.
Veletta has been drawn by the tournament’s unique structure expressing cricket’s ability to unite and establish camaraderie.
“The excitement and enthusiasm that has been generated in terms of how good these competitions are and how much fun you’re having,” he said.
“Cricket is one of those great things that bring people together, it’s a medium for bringing people together and I guess this is no different.
“It’s quite clear that the community for players of my age or similar for cricket is really strong and it’s got stronger with time.”
Additions such as Veletta to the Festivale are expected to have a profound impact on masters cricket going beyond the boundary by not just boosting on field quality but also increasing fan engagement, franchises and media exposure.
“It’s about who you know and how you can open doors,” said Veletta.
“And I know Anthony and all of the teams have done a great job to date.”
“So, I’m anticipating it will be significant in terms of how the tournament evolves and if I can contribute, I’m more than happy to do so, whichever way that is.”
