This month we were privileged to catch up with Cindy Forsyth, debuting in the 1995/96 season. A self-described kid from Opunake who went on to represent the Central Hinds for 10 seasons!

You represented the Central Hinds for 10 seasons, do you have any standout memories from that time?

I feel the standout memory for me throughout my 10 seasons with the Hinds, is that we always had to be a team that battled our way through everything. Everyone involved with the Central District Region is aware of the logistical challenges that are faced, however, in many ways, I feel this also enhances the resilience and strengths of those who represent the Hinds too. The other stand out for me, was that a country kid from Opunake was able to play against players from all around the Country and against those that played for New Zealand.

What are you up to now, and are you still involved in cricket today? 

Currently, I am a Procurement Business Partner with the New Plymouth District Council and enjoy living and working so close to Pukekura Park.

 Immediately following my playing days, I spent many years coaching either the Palmerston North Girls’ High School 1^st XI, the Manawatu and Taranaki Women’s Teams and age group teams, and was also a member of the Manawatu Cricket Board. Recently, I have taken a break from these aspects but still have a keen interest in the game, and who knows what the future will bring.

Something you are proud of from your time with the Central Hinds?

An aspect that I will always be proud of from my time with the Hinds, is the development of the team over that period of time. I was fortunate to play my first game as a 14 year old, and in the early years, we would often find it difficult against older and more experienced teams. However, as the years progressed and the core of the team was maintained, the strength of the team was increased. The results of winning many of the National Age Group competitions started to flow through to the Hinds environment.

Who was your sporting hero growing up?

Sir Richard Hadlee (I think that was also about the fact that he was also a left hand bat and right hand bowler, so I would pretend to be like him in the backyard as a little kid).

Favourite ground to play?
Pukekura Park; like many others, the views, the environment etc. And, although I played many years for Manawatu, Taranaki is where it all started for me and is home.

Image: Cindy Forsyth with the Central Hinds, 1996/97 season, at the Pub Charity Women's National Tournament held at Colin Maiden Park, Auckland

Players from left to right:
Back row; Jacque Gardiner (Manager), Rhonda Chenery, Janice Fraser, Kate Pulford, Sue Shaw, Cindy Forsyth, Melissa Murray, Ann McKenna (Coach)
Front row: Donna Trow, Emma Jensen, Nicole Thessman, Rebecca Rolls (Captain), Melanie Leach, Kate Legg

Article added: Wednesday 03 August 2022