An 18-month hiatus from cricket reignited Callan McKiernan’s passion for the sport he has loved all of his life.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
After playing cricket at a high level for more than a decade, McKiernan needed a break from the sport as he had lost the joy he once had when stepping onto the crease.
“It became a chore for me, I was no longer enjoying cricket and I was drained from it,” McKiernan said.
“I was still coaching cricket but other than that I had nothing to do with it. I didn’t play or watch it on TV, I needed time away.”
The break from cricket has worked wonders for McKiernan and after only a month back into full training the 20-year-old has been selected as a top order batsman into the North Coast Open’s side to compete at the Open’s Country Championships held at Inverell on November 1 to 4.
Related content:
McKiernan was largely picked on the back of his reputation, as he played against the North Coast coach Anthony Kershler in Premier First Grade cricket in Sydney.
Since making a return to the field, McKiernan has developed a new devotion to the game.
“The time away has given me a new love for cricket, I grew up mentally and I have a different love for it,” McKiernan said.
“I play now because it’s what I want to do and not just because I am good at it.
“I have a strong motivation to train hard and to continue to improve.”
McKiernan claims the break has made him a better cricketer, as he has more freedom at the crease.
“When I played my first game back, I had a smile on my face the whole time and just had a lot of fun,” McKiernan said.
“I felt relaxed and I feel better mentally, I can just play my game and I don’t feel any pressure.”
McKiernan, who will celebrate his 21st birthday on the first day of the Country Championships, is determined to perform at a high level and earn more prestigious honours this season.
“My goal for the year is to play well at the Country Championships and give myself the best chance of being picked in the NSW Country team and then competing at the national carnival.”
The Macleay Indoor Sports Cricket Coaching Academy coach represents Rovers in the Premier League.
Stay ahead with local news by signing up for the Macleay Argus newsletter here.
Also making the news:
