Parents are always looking for different ways to get involved in their children's lives and it's usually considered a rare occasion when the two can share the field for a sporting fixture.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
However, that isn't quite the case in the Rovers Browne third grade side as there are strong family connections throughout the entire team.
The side has five fathers who get the memorable opportunity to play alongside their children.
Father Ben Mitchell shared a "special" moment when he and his son Riley occupied the two ends while bowling in their first match of the season against the United All Blacks last Saturday.
"I have been watching him play cricket for most of his life so it was really special to play on the field together, it was a special day," Ben told the Argus.
Riley has proven to be a talented young cricketer, earning selection in the Macleay District Under-12s and Mid North Coast Under-13s representative sides.
The 12-year-old was playing in his first third grade match and for the first time turned from student to teacher for his father Ben, who was making his cricket comeback after more than a decade.
"When I went out to bat, he was giving me all the advice I have given him over the years," Ben said.
"It was a role reversal. He was saying 'just watch the ball' and 'take your time', it was a bit cute and funny that he was now giving me all the hot tips."
Ben got the upper hand on his son with the ball, as he picked up four wickets, but it was Riley who outscored his father with the bat.
"There will be a bit of a Mitchell battle throughout the season and I think it will encourage us to get the best out of ourselves," Ben said.
The Rovers Browne side also has Les and Jaie Rowsell, Brett and Justin Groundwater, Paul and Jordan Clarke as father and son duos while Rowan Buls plays alongside daughters Laura and Sarah in the team.
Stay ahead with local news by signing up for the Macleay Argus newsletter here.
Also making the news:
