James Moore: Becoming better every day
UTS North Sydney District Cricket Club | October 16, 2024
UTS North Sydney's James Moore has illustrated all the qualities of a top-class batsman early in his First Grade career. He hits the ball hard, has delicate hands, and is developing into a fantastic thinker when constructing innings. Pair that with his ability to keep wickets; the future is bright for the young man whose roots lie in Bankstown.
Behind the belligerent blade of Moorey is a fantastic team and club man who would go into the trenches for the ten blokes by his side. He runs the fines post-game, and it is fair to say that a career in law and order is probably not on the horizon. But one thing is for sure, he loves the game more than most.
We sat down to discover more about the 19-year-old, who portrays some perspectives well beyond his years and others not entirely on the same level.
Where did your cricketing journey begin?
My cricketing journey began inside with a plastic bat and ball for hours until I broke something or Dad's arm got sore.
Who is a player you looked up to growing up? And why?
David Warner. I was usually one of my team's only left-handed batters, and I loved his kaboom grey nics. His aggressive style at the crease and his ability to switch gears and play long innings showed me how important adaptability is, which made him such a great 3 format player.
James Moore wore Sydney colours before moving north.
You came through the ranks at Sydney. What did you learn by playing for the Drummoyne-based club?
Coming through the ranks at Sydney was a massive learning experience for me. While there, Sydney was one of the strongest clubs in the competition, filled with top-class players. Training alongside them taught me the importance of consistency and work ethic to play cricket at a high level.
You made your First-Grade debut for Norths against Manly. What did this mean to you at such a young age?
It meant a massive amount to me to make my first-grade debut against arguably one of the strongest teams in the competition and play against some of the guys I watched on TV. It was a surreal moment I'll never forget, even more so because we won in a tight game.
When did you feel like you belonged at that level? Did it take a while?
It took some time for me to feel like I truly belonged at that level. Early on, I was in awe of the talent around me, but my confidence started to build as I played more games and contributed to some key moments. There was a turning point when I strung together a few strong performances toward the back end of the season and realised I could not only keep up but also make a real impact. From that point, I felt more comfortable and felt as though I finally understood my role in the team.
Norths have made a good start to the summer. What do you put that down to?
I think our strong start comes down to a shift in club culture, led by Jimmy Greenslade and Callum Hill, focusing on defending our patch. The group also has a real hunger to show what we can do. Everyone's bought into the team-first mindset, and you can feel the pride when we put on the Norths jersey. Our training has ramped up, and that drive to protect our turf and push ourselves harder each week is really paying off.
Moore in the PGs final last season.
Are there any processes you go through while you are batting? That might keep you relaxed or focused?
As soon as I walk off the pitch, I have a song in my head (generally some Frank Sinatra on repeat), and then I take 2 deep breaths as I approach the crease. This process has allowed me to have a clear and relaxed mind going into each ball. It's taken me a while to find what was right for me, but I know that when I am getting my process on point, more often than not, I'm batting my best.
What would you tell a 12-year-old James Moore?
I'd tell him to stay aggressive, bat his way, and to be yourself. Also, to have fun and don't ever question your love for the game, but stop getting caught on the boundary and take a single every once in a while.
Moore donning the gloves for the Australian Universities side during the UK Summer.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I'd love to see myself dominating first grade with a couple premierships for the Bears, playing some 2nd XI or Shield Cricket, spending my weekends riding my Jet Ski (yet to buy), and fishing.
How would you rate your spelling out of 10?
Probably 6.3/10. It's a good thing autocorrect exists.
What is the most crucial aspect of maintaining a stable relationship?
I'm no Dr Phil, but I'd say communication and making time for the other person are the most important things, especially when you play a sport as time-consuming as cricket. Chocolates and flowers go a long way, too.
You spent a season in the UK recently and have been playing in North Sydney for two years; how would you compare Surrey to the Lower North Shore?
The Lower North Shore is in a league of its own with its stunning beaches, amazing lookout points, and home to the best grade club in Sydney. In the UK, I found myself in south Croydon, notorious for its wide range of culture and 'vibrant' neighbourhoods. However, it was missing one thing. Halal snack packs.
What was your favourite European destination?
It's tough to say. I absolutely loved Italy. I'm a huge pasta and pizza man, and there's just something about the country's rich history and culture that intrigues me. I also really enjoyed Greece because it was the closest thing to Lebanese food I'd had in months.
How many fish have you caught in the Hawkesbury River?
I'd be lying if I said over 5. Unfortunately, the Hawkesbury River and I have quite a shaky relationship; sometimes, I find it best to distance ourselves, and I go down south for some space. When I get a jet ski, I will fit in, and more fish will find themselves on my rod.
First Grade cap 693 for North Sydney.
Which teammate is the biggest pest? And why?
The biggest pest is probably Knighty (Olly Knight), who is still a teenager at heart. Whether it's his 2000s emo tunes on the speaker that we've only just managed to phase out or encouraging our red-headed allrounder Jamo to shave his head to avoid fines. He loves a recycled yarn off the field; however, you can always count on him for some good chat on the field. Never a dull moment when the big cats around.
Why do you love playing for the Bears?
I love playing for the Bears for a couple of reasons. One is that we have not only the best ground in the comp (NSO) but, by far, the best kit, thanks to Jimmy Greenslade and Jack Feilen. Another reason that I love all the people at the club is that even on days when I'm not quite up for going to training, I know that I'm going to see a group of fellas that will not only make me laugh my head off but also push me to be a better cricket and bloke every day.
If you had one piece of life advice to give someone, what would it be?
From what I've learnt in my 19 years, I'd say that the fear of failure is the biggest restraint you can put on your life. If you fear failing, you don't allow yourself to make mistakes and learn to be better for next time. Every successful person has faced setbacks. It's not about how many times you fall but how many times you get back up. "You have to be able to accept failure to get better" - The GOAT Lebron James.
What is your favourite aspect of a Lebanese BBQ?
My favourite part of a Lebanese BBQ has to be my Tayta's Kofta, Tabouli and Kibbeh, along with the family aspect of having all my uncles, aunties and cousins crammed into my Tayta's house. Unfortunately, I don't think many Norths boys venture to Bankstown often, but the invitation is available for anyone interested.
– Callum Hill.
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