St George-Sutherland cricketer Naomi Woods said having the opportunity to play in some representative T20 matches with her sister was made even more special because they doubled as an opportunity to express the pride she feels about her Indigenous heritage.
The Woods sisters, Naomi and Lauren, have been selected to represent Sydney Thunder's Indigenous XI against the Sydney Sixers Indigenous XI at Reg Bartley Oval in Rushcutters Bay this week.
The teams, which consist of players from across NSW, will contest the Indigenous T20 Cup with the winner being decided after a three-match series that will be played on Wednesday and Thursday.
According to Naomi, the younger of the Woods sisters, the Indigenous T20 Cup's focus on community and culture means every player is involved in something much more than just cricket.
"I have immense pride and satisfaction in representing my people and community," she said.
"To be able to represent not only Kamilaroi and my family but all Indigenous people is something I'm very proud of.
"I hope to achieve a greater insight into my people and community and create long lasting relationships and memories to pass onto my family."
Naomi, who plays for the St George-Sutherland Slayers, said she was also excited about the prospect of playing alongside her sister.
"It's not often we get to play together, so to do so playing for the Thunder Indigenous XI is a great achievement for the both of us," Naomi said.
"It's a memory I'm sure we'll cherish. To both be out there representing our people and community is awesome."
