The Twenty20 concept was played with the proviso each side had to have two junior players in its squad and the city's youngsters grabbed the opportunity with both hands.

Going toe-to-toe with the senior players, the likes of A.J. Saunders, Ryan McGill, Brodie Germaine, Cody Tully, Jye Graham and Joel James more than held there own against the big boys.

In fact the junior players made significant contributions to the sides they were playing for.

Fifteen-year-old Graham who was a key member of the victorious Western Bulls bowling line-up impressed his more experienced teammates and opponents with his leg spin.

"He really showed a lot of maturity for a young player and had great control with his bowling, " Western Bulls captain Adrian Morrisby said.

Graham said the experience of playing in the senior ranks had improved his self-belief.

"When you can handle yourself against the older players it really boosts your confidence," he said.

"The support you get from the rest of the team is fantastic and you learn a lot."

Saunders, 16, who played for Panthers said the competition had definitely improved his game and his skills.

"We got to bat, bowl and field and felt a part of the side. It was good to take a few catches and get more comfortable facing better bowlers," he said.

Townview player Germaine, 14, credited his club captain Clint Heuir for taking the time to work with the junior players.

"Clint [Heuir] helped with our batting technique and gave us a good opportunity to show what we could do," Germaine said.

When McGill, 12, was asked what he enjoyed most about playing against players old enough to be his father and grandfather, he said snaring a few wickets.

Although the rising star admitted he felt some trepidation when facing up to renowned speed king Mick Hall.

McGill was not alone amongst the juniors when he nominated Hall as slightly daunting to bat against.

Tully, 15, backed up his Black Stars teammate but both admitted it was a challenge they ultimately enjoyed.

"Yeah, it was a bit scary but by playing against more experienced players you can only get better," Tully said.

The good news for Mount Isa cricket, is most of the juniors involved in the Big Bash will get the chance to come out firing when the regular season starts on Saturday.