No playing shoes, proper cricket pitch or equipment can dampen the spirits of the Tailevu North cricket team’s enthusiasm from playing in the National Women’s Cricket Championship at Albert Park, Suva.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday, team coach Joji Bulabalavu said playing in the competition was a new experience for his players.

“Even having a cone of ice-cream is new to these girls,” Bulabalavu said.

“They don’t even have a pair of shoes, I go out of my way to buy them new shoes. Right now we are looking for a sponsor to assist us in those areas.”

Bulabalavu said playing cricket is new in the Korovou area.

“Now that they have tasted what it’s like to play in a real cricket pitch they now understand what the sport is all about.

“Their game preparations keep increasing as the competition moves on.

“Having no team manager is one of the hardships that we are facing at the moment.

“On a positive note, it’s good to see that parents are starting to show their support for these young women.

“They have given these girls the opportunity to come out and play.

“Also we are grateful for the support from Cricket Fiji in providing their meals and transportation.

“All these girls attend Tailevu North’s Saint Vincent College. All this started when I conducted cricket clinics in the area.

“I chose some players who are here playing. There were five players from nearby villages of Namena, Nananu, Sawakasa and Navunisoda.

“They are so talented and are waiting to be called up to the national squad. My patience has paid off.

“Every day I leave my home in Cunningham to travel to Tailevu to see these girls.

“I’m happy that we have come this far and our aim is to be in the top four or even win the competition.”

Meanwhile, Nadi Blue beat Rotuma by two runs and will face Suva in the second semi-final of the Cup competition.