On the 23 November 1985 I made my Sydney Grade Cricket debut playing for Western Suburbs 3rd Grade against North Sydney at Blick Oval. 109 runs and a win and life in Sydney was off to a good start. 8 days prior I’d finished the HSC in Armidale in Northern NSW.

Next game we played Northern District at Blick, and I was run out for 27 and it was my last game at Blick Oval.

But now 38 years later I’m back baby.

Tomorrow, round one of the 2023-24 NSW Premier Cricket season and I’ve got the privilege of skippering Western Suburbs 3rd grade against Hawkesbury at Blick Oval.

The past 2 seasons I've captained Western Suburbs 2nds and now I’m returning to where it all started.

I can’t be sure, but I really don’t think much has changed, a coat of paint in the dressing sheds perhaps.

Whilst the excitement and nervous energy of starting a new season is not as high as it once was, it’s great to be still playing and hopefully contributing.

The game is a lot younger these days and why I believe it’s so important to have as many experienced players as possible supporting and helping the youngsters.

It’s terrific to see several players in their 50s out on the park, challenging themselves and guiding the youngsters.

Tony Clark at Bankstown, Phil Melville at Northern District and Steve Wark at St George are incredibly into their 5th decade of continual grade cricket. I, along with Simon Waddington at Manly, Brett James at Sutherland, Mark Lewis at Western Suburbs, Matt Lewis and Trevor Whittall at Campbelltown have all had a spell and returned. There may well be others in their 50s playing NSW Premier Cricket and apologise if I’ve missed including you. I also know of many others contributing greatly I country cricket NSW.

It starts again tomorrow. In 1985 I needed a Gregory’s to get to Blick. Hopefully the lads will stick around for a beer or soft drink after the game. Giddy up, cricket is back.