But this week Alex Kemp is in Dubbo, passing his extensive knowledge onto the next generation of first class cricketers.

Kemp is coaching the Metro Sixers North East 14s side in this week’s State Challenge, and giving back to the sport he loves.

“I just love seeing the kids play cricket, playing for the real love and enjoyment of the game,” Kemp said.

“There’s the friendship and camaraderie that’s attached to it but also seeing them get better and their skills get better is also a pretty big thrill as well.”

It’s Kemp’s second year coaching at the State Challenge after the right-handed batsman joined Cricket NSW as a coaching and talent specialist in 2017.

Kemp made his first class debut for the Bulls against NSW in 2012, and when on to play in the final against Tasmania in the same year.

While he only played six first class games, he scored a total of 135 runs and batted opposite Australian Test great Usman Khawaja.

Players like Sutherland’s Max Robinson, who hopes to go “all the way” in the sport, appreciate Kemp’s expertise.

“It’s great having their experience and coaching,” Robinson said.

“They teach me so much everyday.”

Storms in the early hours of Wednesday morning again caused delays to scheduled play, with some fixtures moved to make use of synthetic wickets.

Kemp’s Metro Sixers North East sit in outright first in pool A after a narrow win over Country Sixers Greater Hunter at John McGrath Field 1 on Wednesday.

“Up-and-coming leg spinner” Matthew Sidhu dominated with the ball, claiming 3-32 from eight overs while Queensland under 15 representative Jonah Trope contributed with two catches.

They caught Country Thunder’s 174-run target with just nine balls remaining.

Kemp said the facilities available to the juniors this week were “fantastic”, in spite of the inclement weather.

“It’s very reminiscent of back home and the tropical thunderstorms that we get,” he said.

Kemp labelled the Victoria Park ovals “outstanding” having played their in 2018, and Lady Cutler “pretty good”, considering the weather.

“I think it’s great that the kids have been able to play on turf,” he said.

“Unfortunately with the weather they’ve been moved to synthetic but the fact that there 16 turf grounds out here, it’s a great opportunity to play side-by-side.

“It’s a good opportunity for us as coaches as well to see different teams and for the kids to play kids from all across the state is a great opportunity for them.”