1856 Scholars confirmed for 2026/2027

The Melbourne University Cricket Club is delighted to announce Zara Ford (Bachelor of Science) and Liam Biddiscombe (Bachelor of Commerce) as the recipients of the 1856 Scholarship for 2026/27.

Now in its second year, the 1856 Scholarship is a MUCC initiative designed to support and promote student-athletes, as they balance studies at the University of Melbourne, with their cricketing ambitions at the club.

Valued at up to $5,000 for each recipient, both Zara and Liam underwent a lengthy application and interview process, earning their place as Scholarship recipients for the upcoming season.

Melbourne University Cricket Club President, Nic Brian was pleased to confirm their receipt of the Scholarship. “We are delighted to announce Zara and Liam as the 1856 Scholars for the upcoming season,” he said.

“In its second year, the Scholarship is one of the key ways that we can support and promote student participation in cricket, which we recognise as crucial.

“We look forward to following Zara and Liam on their journey both through their studies and as long-serving and successful players at the club.”

For Zara, her position as Scholarship winner comes in her second year as a MUCCer, while Liam will only pull on the Baggy Black for the first time in season 2026/27, having made the switch from Geelong in the off-season.

Zara was beaming upon confirmation of her position, grateful for the support of the broader MUCC community.

“I feel really lucky to be given the 1856 Scholarship this year, not only because it will be a significant help with my cricket and academic goals, but it’s also really meaningful to know there’s a network of MUCCers who are keen to support me.”

Although she only joined the club at the beginning of last season, Zara has already made an impact, winning the batting average for the Women’s Blues XI. Not unusual for Zara, she has made a habit of being an instant positive influence, right back to when she started the game as a twelve-year-old in Canberra.

There, she was the only girl on her school team and was determined to ensure that the school embrace equal opportunity.

“Initially there was a lot of frustration, as I was treated differently or sometimes excluded,” she reflected.

“This sparked my passion about gender equity in sport and cricket became about finding inclusive spaces that encourage people to reach their potential.”

As a result, Zara made an impassioned speech to the school, which preceded a series of meetings with the school’s leadership in her pursuit for change. As a consequence, the school now offers more inclusive cricket programs for girls, the opportunity for a sports exchange and welcomes girls into its various high-level cricket programs.

Keen to bring a similar culture of inclusivity in the pursuit of high performance to the Women’s program at MUCC, Zara is already working to develop establish the first-ever women’s Intervarsity team. Equally keen to build her own leadership and coaching skills, she is ready to embrace the totality of her experience at The Main.

“For me, it is exciting to be involved in a larger scale club, and I am just so excited for what the 2026/27 season will bring!”

Having moved up the highway from Geelong, Liam Biddiscombe’s new home at Queen’s College means he will never be too far from the cricket club in his position as 1856 Scholar.

Precociously talented, the batting all-rounder made the move from Geelong to further his cricket, balancing his First XI ambitions with Commerce classes on the other side of Grattan Street.

“It really is an honour to be named the Scholar for this season,” Liam said.

“To have made the decision to move clubs and come up to Melbourne, it is comforting to know that there is an added layer of support there.

“Also, to think of what sits behind it (the Scholarship) to make it possible is very special, so I am grateful to the club for the opportunity and can’t wait to get out on the field!”

Most recently a state representative for Victoria Country at the Under 19 National Championships in Western Australia, Liam comes to MUCC with a wealth of experience at Premier level, having already represented Geelong for the past two seasons. With a high-score of 130 under his belt, Liam is looking forward to taking things to another level at The Main.

“I now have a solid foundation at Premier cricket, and after playing a full season of Second XI cricket last year, I am hoping to make my mark as a First XI player this year.

“My game has developed a lot in the past twelve months and this fresh start is a great opportunity to capitalise on that in a new environment.”

Equally excited by the prospect of helping to grow the club’s various programs, Liam is keen to throw himself into the coaching of junior programs and will be involved in the running of Intervarsity when the time comes, too.

“I’ll be putting my all into the club, both on and off the field.”

The 1856 Scholarship is supported by the 1856 Club, a fundraising initiative which focuses on supporting student participation in University cricket. Members of the 1856 Club can sign up to any one of a variety of options, knowing that their contributions will have a direct and immediate impact on supporting University student cricketers.

To support the 1856 club, including the revival of Intervarsity cricket and the Scholarship, click below: