Hunter Valley Cricketer Delivers Historic Italian Victory with Three Consecutive Sixes
In a moment that will be etched in Italian sporting history, Hunter Valley product Grant Stewart delivered an unforgettable performance to secure Italy's first-ever T20 victory against a full International Cricket Council member nation.
A Dream Finish Becomes Reality
Cricketers often fantasise about hitting the winning runs with a boundary, but Stewart achieved something truly extraordinary. With Italy needing 16 runs from the final over against Ireland in Dubai, the right-handed batsman produced what can only be described as a fairytale finish.
Stewart, who will turn 32 during the upcoming T20 World Cup, launched not one, not two, but three consecutive deliveries over the boundary rope for maximums. His remarkable feat sealed the four-wicket victory with three balls to spare, instantly creating a new chapter in Italian cricket folklore.
"It's amazing," Stewart said after the match. "We've been working hard over the last four, five, or even longer years, so to get to this moment is very promising and just a great day for us."
From Maitland Turf Farms to International Stardom
The all-rounder's journey to this historic moment began on a turf farm in Maitland, where he developed his cricket skills before representing Newcastle and NSW Country. Stewart has spent the better part of the last decade playing professionally with English county side Kent, qualifying for the Italian national team through family heritage.
Batting at number seven, Stewart finished with 33 not out from just 19 deliveries, with more than half those runs coming from his three match-defining sixes. His contribution helped Italy successfully chase down Ireland's total of 154 with six wickets down.
"My first 10 or so balls [with the bat] didn't go so well," Stewart admitted. "I was just trying to keep calm and stick to what I know I do well, and thankfully today it came off for me. I was really pumped to be able to get the boys over the line today."
Building Momentum Ahead of the World Cup
The victory against Ireland marked a significant milestone for Italian cricket, which has already broken new ground by qualifying for the T20 World Cup. The team carried their momentum into subsequent warm-up matches, with Zain Ali hitting a six from the final ball to secure a three-wicket victory against Namibia.
Stewart's contribution wasn't limited to his batting heroics. Earlier in the match against Ireland, he opened the bowling and claimed impressive figures of 2-27 while also featuring in a run-out, demonstrating his value as a genuine all-rounder.
World Cup Campaign and Local Connections
With their warm-up matches in the United Arab Emirates now complete, Italy will open their maiden T20 World Cup campaign against recently promoted Scotland on February 9. They find themselves in Group C alongside England, West Indies, and Nepal, with the tournament to be hosted across India and Sri Lanka.
Closer to home, the Newcastle District Cricket Association's first-grade competition continues this weekend, with several intriguing matchups including Merewether versus Charlestown and defending premiers Wallsend hosting CBs. The local cricket scene remains vibrant as players like Stewart continue to inspire the next generation of Hunter Valley cricketers.
Stewart, who previously played club cricket for Norths and University in Newcastle, now looks ahead to representing Italy on cricket's biggest stage. "I'm really looking forward going towards the World Cup," he said. "Hopefully we can put a few more good performances in."
