The talented duo caught Bracken’s well-trained eye while representing the Young Guns against the All Stars in a special T20 clash at Bolton Park on Australia Day.

As part of the Destination NSW Home Ground Cricket Tour, an under 19 years squad comprising players from Wagga and District Cricket Association clubs was selected to take on a local, open age team.

In an exciting coup for the young players, visiting two-time ICC Cricket World Cup winner Bracken took on a coaching and advisory role with the under 19s team.

Cricket NSW development officer Luke Olsen was yesterday full of praise for Bracken, describing his visit as “invaluable” to the aspiring local players on the Young Guns team.

Bracken assisted the team on the field by offering advice concerning field position and strategy, and was only too willing to share his knowledge and expertise.

“Nathan was really good for the young guys,” Olsen said.

“He was with them when they batted and he went out with them when they fielded.

“At the end of the game he took them all back into the change rooms and let them ask him questions. The guys just loved it.

“To have the chance to spend time with a player of his calibre is an invaluable opportunity.”

Olsen said players who participated in the game will have taken plenty away from the twilight T20 bash.

“The boys don’t play a lot of 20/20 cricket down here and it is a completely different game to play,” he said.

“The things they have learned are things they will be able to take into their next 20/20 game.”

Not only did Bracken win plenty of fans during his visit, the former NSW star was impressed with the skill and ability of young players.

Teenager Jack stood out in his role as captain of the Young Guns team, with Bracken hailing the 16-year-old for his level-headed approach and obvious maturity. 

“He very impressed with Jack and his maturity,” Olsen said.

“He was genuinely surprised to hear he was only 16.

“He thought he handled himself very well as captain and thinks he has a big future ahead of him

“He was also pretty impressed with Max, Jack’s 14-year-old younger brother.

“But, overall, he thought everyone played well.”