Harrisdale Senior High School student Simar Waraich is taking centre stage in Bunbury for the 2026 under-15 cricket state championships, hosted by School Sport WA.
For mum Paramjit Waraich, the moment her daughter was selected was unforgettable.
“I was watching her district game when I got the email that she had been selected for the state team,” Mrs Waraich said.
“It was a happy and emotional moment. There were tears in my eyes when I read the email.
“I was excited to give her the news, but she was playing at the time and I didn’t want to distract her.”
Mrs Waraich said Simar’s strong work ethic played a major role in her development as a state representative.
“She’s very dedicated,” she said.
“From my side, it’s taking her to training and staying there until it’s finished because it’s far from home.
“Even when there’s no training, she always asks us to train her in the backyard or at the oval.”
While the excitement of state selection was sinking in, Mrs Waraich said Simar felt nervous ahead of her first appearance at state level.
“There’s a lot of excitement that she’s been selected and will get to play against other states,” she said.
“Playing at state level is a big opportunity, so she’s also a little nervous – it’s her first time performing at this level.”
Girls’ team coach Shaun Towers said Simar stood out as one of the strongest players in her age group, particularly behind the stumps.
“Simar impressed as one of the best girls in the state with her glovework as a wicket keeper,” he said.
“Simar proved these skills in a practice match against BDCA women’s with three stumpings and a catch in only one innings.”
Looking ahead to the championships, Mr Towers said the team had clear goals both on and off the field.
“Enjoyment and exposure to the highest level of cricket for their age,” he said.
“Positive team cohesion, bringing together the best girls from various competitions and teams across the state creates unique opportunity to gel and bond with others that at the same level as themselves.
“Performance wise, with the depth in our team, our girls could be pushing for a top three if not top two finish if opportunities are taken throughout the week.”
