The AFL International Cup will return to Diggers Rest on Saturday.

The Burras hosted a game between Indonesia and France in 2014, the last time the cup was held, and had no hesitation in putting their hand up again.

Burras operations manager Ben Morse said it was an easy decision.

This time around the club will host Indonesia and China.

“Last time it was really successful and I know the Indonesian team enjoyed it out here,” Morse said.

“It couldn’t have gone any better. It gives them a taste of local football, and they were
cheering the loudest of anyone during our games.

“I know our players really enjoyed getting to know the players after the game.

“It’s great for the town to host an international sporting event.”

Morse said that when the International Cup came to town in 2014, the international players had been thrilled to mix with the club’s former AFL players and it was hoped similar encounters would eventuate this weekend.

“Last time they got to meet Brent Tuckey and Callum Wilson and it’s the first time they’d met AFL players,” he said.

“Cale [Morton] and Taylor [Hine] are more than happy to talk to them after the game this time.”

The match will be played from noon before the senior Riddell District Football League match between Diggers Rest and Romsey.

The reserves match between the two clubs has been moved to a 10am start to accommodate the International Cup.

After the seniors match, the club will host a post-match function with both international sides in attendance.

Morse said there would be special jumper presentations to both countries and local schools were also getting involved by supporting the match.

The club is hoping Channel 31 will stream the game online, giving people in both participant countries the opportunity to watch from home.

The club is also holding a past player day on Saturday.

Written by Tara Murray. Originally published by Star Weekly 7/8/2017 @ http://www.starweekly.com.au/sports/diggers-rest-pumped-for-international-cup/