A group of Montrose Cricket Club’s youngest players enjoyed a night they will remember forever, stepping onto the hallowed turf of the Melbourne Cricket Ground as part of a special Big Bash League experience with the Melbourne Stars.
On Tuesday night, 13 January, the Montrose Cricket Club was invited by Cricket Victoria and the Melbourne Stars to have 13 boys and girls take part as Woolworths Cricket Blast mascots during a Big Bash clash at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
For the children, aged between four and eight, the excitement was instant and infectious. From the moment they arrived, wide smiles and wide eyes told the story of how special the opportunity was. Walking onto the MCG, standing where cricketing heroes have played, and soaking in the atmosphere of a packed Big Bash crowd created priceless memories for the young cricketers and their families.
Each child received an Indigenous-designed Melbourne Stars playing shirt, along with a cap and flag to keep as a lasting memento of their experience. The night included two unforgettable on-field moments. While the Stars were fielding, the children paired up with players, meeting them face-to-face and having their caps signed. Later, they returned to the field to form a guard of honour as Tom Rogers and Sam Harper walked out to bat, waving their flags as fireworks lit up the stadium.
As mascots, music and fireworks filled the ground, the joy on the children’s faces said it all. One young participant could hardly contain their excitement after meeting a Stars player, beaming with pride as they took it all in. For parents watching from the stands, it was a powerful reminder of how sport can create moments that last a lifetime.
Montrose Cricket Club said it was incredibly proud to be able to offer such opportunities through its strong relationship with Cricket Victoria and the Melbourne Stars. The invitation reflects the club’s commitment to junior development and providing positive, memorable experiences for young players starting their cricket journey.
Families interested in giving cricket a go are encouraged to take part in Montrose Cricket Club’s upcoming five-week Pop-Up Cricket Blast program. The program costs $49 and runs on Friday evenings from 5pm to 6pm on the back oval at Montrose Reserve, including a presentation event at the conclusion.
Registrations are available via PlayHQ or through the Montrose Cricket Club website and Facebook page, giving more local kids the chance to discover the fun, friendships and excitement that cricket can offer.
