By Benjamin Casey
The Upwey Cricket Club has launched its 2024/25 campaign in the Ferntree Gully District Cricket Association, with the Tigers already making their mark across all divisions. From senior sides to juniors, the club has had an action-packed start, with plenty of success and some memorable moments. But before diving into this season’s excitement, let’s take a look back at how the Tigers fared in 2023/24.
2023/24 Season Recap: A Year of Growth and Resilience
The 2023/24 season was a rollercoaster for Upwey Cricket Club, filled with triumphs and challenges. The highlight was the 2nd XI’s thrilling grand final victory over The Basin, crowning them as premiers in what’s already being hailed as one of the club’s greatest games. Meanwhile, both the 3rd and 4th XIs reached their grand finals but fell just short of the title. The Women’s XI also had an outstanding season, reaching the semi-finals while breaking individual and team records.
The junior program, guided by Rebecca and Chris Jewell, saw increasing numbers, with the Super 7’s, Fast 9’s, and Blasters programs all growing. Promising young players like Lachie Jansen, Hayden Smith, Florien Todd, and Kasey Richardson made their mark with maiden centuries and impressive bowling performances. The season’s highlight came from 18-year-old Bon Sullivan, whose match-winning knock in the grand final under pressure cemented his place as one of the club’s rising stars.
However, the 1st XI struggled and barely avoided relegation, serving as a wake-up call. The leadership has since reflected on the season, using the experience to address critical issues ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.
2024/25 Season Preview: Seniors Set for Success
With lessons learned, Upwey’s senior sides, including the Women’s XI, are ready for a strong comeback in 2024/25, focusing on training intensity and accountability.
1st XI: Captained by Jackson Waters and co-coached with Toby Keast, the 1st XI will be looking to rebound after a tough 2023/24 season. The addition of all-rounder Percy Hyett strengthens the side, though the departures of Andrew Evans (to Olinda) and Steve Collard (retirement) will be felt. Key players like Lachie Jansen (LJ) and Waters will lead the charge, aiming for more consistency.
2nd XI: After winning the premiership last season, the 2nd XI is set for another strong year. Steve Gannell takes over as captain, with the addition of pace bowler Adam Bronsgeest from Eildon Park boosting their attack. Young players like Oskar Taylor, Kasey Richardson, and Hayden Smith are pushing for senior spots, bringing healthy competition to the team.
3rd XI: Led by Ethan Kennedy, the 3rd XI is a young and talented side. After narrowly missing the premiership last season, they are determined to go one step further. Veterans Richard Wicks and Buster Todd will provide experience and support for the younger players.
4th XI: Vice President James Todd will captain the 4th XI after last season’s heartbreaking grand final loss. With players like Warren Dickson, Benjamin Greenberg, and Brett Snell leading the charge, the team is motivated to push for the premiership this time.
Women’s XI: After a semi-final finish last season, the Women’s XI will look to build on that success. With a strong core of players returning, the team is well-positioned to go further this year, aiming to break more records and push for the premiership.
With strong leadership and a focus on development, the club is well-positioned for a successful season across all grades.
Week 1 Match Reports: Tigers Off to a Rainy Start
The 2024/25 season began with rain affecting matches across all grades, including the Women’s XI, with games abandoned before the end of the first innings. Despite the weather, there were standout performances from the senior teams.
1st XI vs Ferntree Gully: Debutants Percy Hyett and Bon Sullivan took to the field in tough conditions. After a shaky start, Chris Jewell stabilized the innings with an unbeaten 44*, while Jay Collee contributed 21*. The team managed 6/103 off 36 overs before rain forced an abandonment.
2nd XI vs Ferntree Gully: The 2nd XI’s match was also affected by rain. Kasey Richardson made his debut, and Adam Bronsgeest took a wicket in his first game for the club. Both delivered solid spells, but the match was called off before completion.
3rd XI vs The Basin: Ethan Kennedy starred with the bat, smashing an unbeaten 81*, including 16 boundaries, as the 3rd XI reached 2/135 off 24 overs before the rain ended play. Kennedy’s performance was the highlight of the day.
4th XI vs The Basin: Unfortunately, the 4th XI’s match was forfeited, leaving them without a game this weekend.
Women’s XI: The Women’s XI start there campaign this weekend against Mt Gate. Make sure to pop down on Sunday with the game being played at Windemere Reserve from 1pm.
Despite the disruptions, the early performances showed plenty of promise for the season ahead.
Callout for Players: Join the Tigers!
The Upwey Cricket Club is still welcoming new players across all levels, including the Women’s XI. Whether you’re an experienced cricketer or just looking for a fun weekend sport, the Tigers have a spot for you.
Training times: Tuesday and Thursday evenings at Upwey Recreation Reserve.
How to join: Contact the club via Facebook or visit during training sessions.
With great coaching and a welcoming community, now’s the perfect time to join the Tigers!
Quirky Story of the Week: Upwey President Risks Life in Shocking Eagle Rescue Drama!
In a heroic moment, club president Steve “Bobcat” Gannell saved a nest of young wedge-tailed eagles from a stray cat. Spotting the hatchlings in distress, Gannell scaled a tree with surprising agility to shoo the cat away, saving the defenseless birds.
The daring rescue has quickly become part of club folklore, showing that Gannell’s duties go beyond the cricket field. They say a president’s responsibilities are endless, but saving eagles? That’s next level!
Upcoming Matches: Week 2
1st XI vs Knoxfield @ KNOXFIELD
2nd XI vs Knoxfield @ HOME
3rd XI vs Lysterfield @ PARK RIDGE
4th XI vs South Belgrabe @ SILVAN
Under 18s vs TBC (Friday Night)
Women’s XI vs Mt Gate @ Windermere (Sunday)
For updates, follow the Upwey Cricket Club on Facebook and Instagram. Go Tigers!
