Mornington Peninsula Cricket recruits, rumours for season 2024-25

Big signings, coaching appointments and rumours...the MPCA off-season is awash with news.

Ben King (left), Sean Garner and Anthony Salomon.

Mornington Peninsula cricket clubs have had the pen out, signing a raft of recruits for the 2024-25 season.

KING BECOMES A SAINT

Ben King, owner of the highest-ever score in the MPCA, has left French Island and returned to Balnarring.

The 31-year-old made Mornington Peninsula cricket history amid a flurry of sixes and lost balls when he smashed 321no for the Islanders in November, 2022.

It surpassed the previous record of 315, made 70 years prior.

After giving French Island years of sterling service, King has re-joined Balnarring, where he played a decade ago.

“Moving into the next phase of his career, Kingy is keen to challenge himself at a higher level once again,” Balnarring said.

Ben King blasts off, on his way to an MPCA all-time record score of 321no for French Island. Picture: Picture: Jorja Gay

ANOTHER KEY SIGNING

Balnarring has also signed Boneo premiership hero Josh Peet.

The all-rounder made a vital 44 off 151 balls at the top of the list in the grand final for Boneo — and was also part of the MPCA Country Week squad last season.

“Josh is excited to take his game to the next level and push our young playing group further in 2024/25,’’ the Saints said.

Josh Peet shakes hands with Balnarring coach Luke Hewitt. Picture: Facebook

DUCS RETAIN IMPORTS

Moorooduc has locked in its two overseas players Aiden Logue and Raymond Curry for another season.

Curry, from Ireland, made 351 runs and took 12 wickets last season.

SHARKS SIGN FOUR

Rosebud has secured four recruits from local clubs.

Sorrento’s promising young batter Will Jewell will bolster Rosebud’s top order. He makes the move after playing 32 1stXI games at the Sorras.

Boneo all rounder Sean Garner joins the Sharks after 42 first XI games with the Pandas.

Liam Peirce, a Rosebud Junior and senior cricketer, has returned after two seasons at Boneo.

Mt Martha right arm seam bowler Harris Rickard has also joined Rosebud.

Sean Garner has joined Rosebud.

HOPPERS LAND BATTER

Dromana’s push into Provincial ranks has received a boost with talented batter Madu Perera signing on for season 2024-25.

Perera topped Moorooduc’s runs list with 393 last season.

Dromana has also regained Mackenzie Henderson from Flinders.

And the Hoppers have re-signed premiership hero Jack Fowler for another three years.

Fowler made 68 and took 3-20 in Dromana’s grand final win over Mt Eliza in March.

Jack Fowler.

BART TO STEER LIONS

Experienced MPCA man Bart Hudgson is Carrum’s new senior coach.

Bart has done it all, from player to coach, umpire and association board member.

He knows the local cricket scene and the game of cricket better than most.

“A well respected figure with plenty of experience, we look forward to what Bart can bring to the talented playing group we currently have,” Carrum said.

BOOST FOR COUGARS

Former Noble Park VSDCA bowler Anthony Salomon has joined Carrum Downs.

He’s also a Personal Trainer and runs his own gym from home, so we can expect the Cougars to be fit and strong next season.

Anthony Salomon bowling for Noble Park. Picture: Valeriu Campan

NEW COACH FOR RYE

Dromana batter Adam Ciavarella has taken on the Rye coaching job.

It’s a great appointment by the Demons, with Ciavarella bringing a wealth of experience and success, having previously captain-coached at Oakleigh Districts, Moorabbin and Nar Nar Goon.

He’s also a two-time First XI premiership player at Dromana.

“We’re thrilled,” Rye said.

“A true student of the game, Adam’s deep knowledge and passion for cricket will be invaluable assets as we aim for new heights at Rye CC. His positive attitude, excellent communication skills, and ability to get the best out of players make him an outstanding addition to our club.”

Adam Ciavarella is Rye's new coach. Picture: Facebook

STONECATS SIGN CARDY STAR

Frankston YCW has secured Cardinia fast bowler Dean Henwood, as both a player and bowling coach/mentor.

Henwood has vast experience as a front-line bowler at various clubs including South Melbourne, Nar Nar Goon, Garfield-Tynong and most recently as the First XI captain at Cardinia, where he has played most of his career.

“He is excited to work with and be amongst the young bowling stock we have at Frank St,’’ Frankston YCW said.

Henwood will work alongside Stonecats coach Simon Draycott and assistant coach Dan Salvato.

WHISPERS

Sorrento speaking to two high profile playing-coaches as it searches for a replacement for Seb Gotch.

Whisper is the Sorras will also land an ex-St Kilda batter.