By Yarin Barrett
SUNSHINE Coast Scorchers first grade scorer John Olding has been recognised for his outstanding work with appointment for the second Ashes Test match at the Gabba starting on Thursday, December 4.
John, 74, will work as a scorer for the big screen for the match between Australia and England, in what will be his first Test match appointment.
The selection comes after John was also selected for the recent Sheffield Shield match between Queensland and Victoria at the Gabba.
The Burpengary local started scoring cricket matches for the Sunshine Coast Cricket Association (SCCA) in the 2016/17 season in the second division competition and is now a Level 2 qualified scorer working the first division for the Sunshine Coast Scorchers.
John said although he never had a chance to play cricket, he has always had an interest in it.
“I’ve just liked it, always enjoyed cricket,” he said.
The retired paramedic needed something to keep him occupied, so he started scoring cricket matches.
“I’ve been scoring since I retired from work, been with the Scorchers since 2016/17,” he said.
John said he never expected to be scoring a Test match when he first started the role.
“I’d retired, it was just something to do, for me it’s just a hobby,” he said.
“I started with seconds and then they needed someone for first grade, so I got thrown into that one.”
John said he enjoys getting to know the players.
“Especially when they play state and they come back and play club,” he said.
“I’ve seen quite a few come through from Scorchers and under 17s, under 19s, go through and do quite well for themselves.”
