Cricket NSW, the Sydney Sixers and Sydney Thunder have jointly unveiled a new artwork motif which represents the people, history, connection to Country and shared stories of cricket in the state.
Mirrung, which takes its name from the Dharug word for belonging, was collaboratively designed by five of the states contracted Indigenous players in Hannah Darlington, Charlie Anderson, Ashleigh Gardner, Anika Learoyd and Emma Manix-Geeves.
NSW Cricket said key elements of the design symbolise connection to the land, past generations and the game, and the pathways and meeting places which represent the journeys of all involved in cricket across the state.
Mirrung will be adopted as a perpetual symbol on the sleeve of all playing shirts worn by cricketers representing CNSW teams, including the NSW Blues, NSW Breakers, Sydney Sixers and Sydney Thunder sides (WBBL and BBL), as well as all Indigenous, inclusion and pathway teams.
Darlington, Mirrung's lead artist, said she was honoured to bring together the stories of First Nations players, their journeys and the land on which cricket is played across NSW through the motif.
"For me, it was all about representing belonging, so that players across all our teams could feel that connection to Country, First Nations communities across NSW and the game itself," she said.
"I'm proud that this will be worn by all Cricket NSW teams going forward, a sign that we are truly embracing reconciliation each time we take the field."
Mirrung - The Story
"Mirrung represents the meaning of belonging. Our connection to Country, our people, our past, and the game that brings us together.
At the heart of the artwork is a brown handprint, symbolising our connection to the land, the generations who have come before us, and our shared love of cricket. From the hand, pathways extend across the artwork to represent the many regions of New South Wales, reflecting the diverse communities and places that make up cricket in NSW.
The blue meeting places represent the journeys of everyone involved in cricket throughout NSW. The interconnection of these symbolises the places where our paths cross, connect, and grow together. At the centre sits the largest meeting place, representing our home, Cricket Central. A place where our cricket community comes together as one.
Scattered throughout the artwork are the stars, which honour the ancestors who lived on and cared for this beautiful land long before us. They remind us that we are part of a story that extends beyond our own, with a responsibility to respect the past as we shape the future.
Together, these elements tell a story of connection, identity, and belonging. Recognising that while our journeys may begin in different places, cricket brings us together, connects generations, and gives us a place to call home."
Informed by mob
Cricket NSW said Mirrung's adoption follows an extensive consultation process between First Nations players, its First Nations Advisory Committee - representing Indigenous communities from across NSW - and leaders within CNSW.
They said the 'always on' approach of a permanent motif being emblazoned on all playing uniforms amplifies CNSW's pledge to publicly communicate our commitment to reconciliation, in accordance with its Reconciliation Action Plan.
"Mirrung is a wonderful example of our players leading by example in Cricket NSW's ongoing journey towards reconciliation and healing with First Nations peoples," Cricket NSW CEO, Lee Germon, said.
"This striking artwork beautifully encapsulates the connection between First Nations cultures, the land on which we play cricket and our shared journeys through the game.
"We are proud of and thankful for our First Nations players, whose stories have informed the motif's design, and congratulate Hannah on bringing this together so powerfully.
"We look forward to our players and teams - the Blues, Breakers, Sixers, Thunder, Indigenous, inclusion and pathways teams - wearing the Mirrung motif with pride when they next take the field."
Mirrung sits alongside existing Cricket NSW initiatives, including support of Indigenous teams and First Nations programs, at-match event presentation, Welcome and Acknowledgement of Country, and barefoot circles.
Cricket NSW said the activities ensure First Nations heritage, contribution and connection to country are reflected across the game at all levels.
