President's Update - February 2026

MUCCers,

As we race towards the pointy end of another cricket season, there is much to be excited about at the Main.

With Finals cricket a distinct possibility across the grades in both the Men’s and Women’s sections, the Women’s Black XI are sitting in second place on the ladder. Meanwhile in the Men’s competitions, the Third and Fourth XI’s have secured Finals berths, while the final three weeks of the regular season shape as integral if the First and Second XIs are to join them.

While we always prioritise the results of the club, it has also been very pleasing to see some individuals leading the way with their remarkable performances on the field. Last Saturday, both club captain, Fergus McKenna (116) and Yorkshire import, Finlay Bean (105) recorded their third centuries for the season. A couple of weeks earlier, club great (his own words!), Mark Stafford collected his 400^th wicket in his 250^th match, when Uni played Essendon in Round 14.

Similarly, Aswathi Shankar continues to cut a swathe through opposition batting line-ups, as she continues a stunning season – having already claimed 23 wickets at an average of just 4.74!

On the other side of the pickets, it is with a heavy heart, but a wealth of gratitude, that we farewell Janak Prakash. Janak, who has given all of himself to the club over five seasons, has made the decision to return home to Singapore to pursue work opportunities.

A talented all-rounder, a remarkable dancer and a truly wonderful person, he will be sorely missed. As for his standard drink order of a double rum and coke, I am reliably informed that Nick Burke will happily pick up the slack in Janak’s absence.

The Club was also delighted to hear that Dr Paul Sinclair was recently awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia. A fine contributor to MUCC – and a Premiership player – Paul is thoroughly deserving. You can read more about his achievements HERE.

Many members of our community would also be aware of the club’s 1856 Scholarship. An initiative made possible thanks to the generosity of many of you via the 1856 Club, I am delighted to confirm that Jack Lyndon and Damini Ramesh as the inaugural recipients. More information will be made available in the coming weeks, and we look forward to supporting both of them in their cricketing and academic endeavours.

If you would like to contribute to student participation in the cricket club, yes even the kookaburra red cherry or cool mint are getting more expensive, you can make a deductible donation via the link.

It really is my favourite time of the year, and not only because the golf is best in late summer and early autumn, but because there is a wealth of opportunity ahead for all members of the MUCC community.

Thanks again for your support and I look forward to seeing you at the Main soon.

Go Uni,

Prez/ Snake/ Squid’s bed partner in Queenstown/ Midori & Hard Rated afficionado