Stephanie Hughes: A Model of Consistency, Growth, and Club Spirit
Manly Warringah District Cricket Club | February 01, 2026
Steph Hughes has been a valued and steadily improving member of the club since making her debut in the 2019/20 season at Under 15 level. From the outset, she demonstrated strong commitment and a willingness to develop her game, qualities that have defined her progression through the grades.
In the 2020/21 season, Steph stepped up to third grade, where she made an immediate impact behind the stumps. She recorded 15 catches and a stumping, showcasing her natural wicketkeeping ability and sharp reflexes. The following season, 2021/22, saw her promoted to second grade, where she continued to impress with seven catches and three stumpings. Her consistent performances were rewarded with her first-grade debut, playing three matches at the highest level.
Steph remained a key contributor in second grade during the 2022/23 season while also earning another first-grade appearance. That year she added 12 catches and a stumping to her tally, further cementing her reputation as a reliable and hardworking wicketkeeper.
The 2023/24 season proved to be particularly memorable. Playing in second grade, Steph recorded 12 catches and an outstanding 11 stumpings, many of which came from bowling by her sister, Lara — a partnership that became a highlight of the season. She was also part of the club’s championship-winning side, contributing to a highly successful year overall.
In 2024/25, Steph continued to balance opportunities across grades, playing two first-grade matches and sharing the wicketkeeping duties in second grade. Despite sharing the gloves, she still managed six catches and four stumpings. With the bat, this was her most productive season to date, scoring over 240 runs and posting a highest score of 59, underlining her continued growth as an all-round contributor.
Steph’s batting has improved season by season, reflected in her career total of more than 1,000 runs for the club, including four half-centuries and a top score of 71 not out. Behind the stumps, she has accumulated an impressive 68 catches and 23 stumpings, while also contributing seven wickets when called upon to bowl.
Beyond the statistics, Steph is widely regarded for her positive attitude, infectious enthusiasm, and strong support of her teammates. Her passion for the club and commitment to continuous improvement make her a highly respected and valued member of the playing group, with her best cricket still ahead of her.
