Underarm appeal: Ross Bailey.
Underarm appeal: Ross Bailey believes an annual underarm cricket match played between teams made up of players aged 60 and over would be a good fund raiser for charity.
ROSS Bailey excelled in bowls, tennis and cricket and many other sports during his heyday.
While not as active these days, Ross still keeps a close eye on all matters sport.
He’d like to see a fund raising game of underarm cricket played between mixed teams made up of players aged 60 and over.
“We could play it at Taree Rec Centre,’’ he said.
Ross believes each side could have 15 players and each would face two overs of underarm bowling.
“There’d be six ball overs, the bowlers would have four-step run ups,’’ he said. “No player could be dismissed for a duck, but would have to retire at 15.’’
Boundaries would be shortened and batters could have a runner if required.
“We could have teams from several centres, like Harrington, Taree, Cundletown and Wingham.
The cost would be $5 per player with $2 or a gold coin donation for spectators,’’ he added.
He believes this would be a great fundraiser for a worthy charity and if possible, a prominent sportsperson could be invited along to help with the promotion.
Trevor Chappell would be good, if he’s available, Ross said.
“We could play for the Trevor Chappell Cup,’’ he added.
Trevor Chappell infamously bowled an underarm delivery in a one day international against New Zealand at the MCG in 1981 under the orders of his brother, Greg, the then Australian captain.
Ross thinks the underarm challenge could be played annually, with a different charity to benefit each year.
Anyone keen to further discuss the matter can contact Ross on 6552 2948.