MPCA buzz: Club to hold crucial meeting, whispers, signings

A Mornington Peninsula Cricket Association club is set to hold a pivotal meeting as it grapples with potential player departures and leadership changes. Plus the latest signings and whispers.

The MPCA off-season remains a hive of activity.

The MPCA off-season continues to sizzles with activity.

Here’s the latest goings on:

FROGS TO RALLY

Tootgarook Cricket Club is facing an important period in its history.

The Frogs, who play in MPCA Sub District, are grappling with potential player departures and leadership changes, but remain hopeful for a strong comeback in the 2025-26 season.

Club official and player Corey De Bruyn acknowledges the hurdles but emphasises the club’s solid foundation in its junior ranks.

“We’ve got 55 kids from last year, so the kids are not the issue,” De Bruyn said.

The club is set to hold a crucial meeting next month to elect a new president following Toby Maughan’s resignation and to rally support.

While rumours swirl about key players like Trav French and Scott Sterling potentially moving on, and Steve Nelson and Matthew Whelan considering their futures, De Bruyn remains optimistic.

“We might have to play a few more kids (in the firsts)...we can blood the kids,” he said, dismissing concerns about fielding senior sides.

Corey De Bruyn bowling for Tootgarook. Picture: Valeriu Campan

The club is also addressing financial challenges, which De Bruyn believes are “not a hard fix.”

De Bruyn vehemently denies any danger of not fielding senior teams, although a drop to A1 grade remains a last-resort option.

A crucial meeting is slated for the King’s Birthday weekend to elect a new president and drum up community support.

“It’s just about getting hands on deck. That’s really what we are after,’’ De Bruyn said.

“We’ve kept all our sponsors. I know there are a few rumours going around. We’re lucky we’ve got kids. We’ve always had juniors.’’

Tootgarook had an excellent 2024-25 season, winning eight matches and playing finals.

EAGLES GET THEIR MANN

Great pick up for Somerville with classy batsman Nick Mann returning after a long stint at Frankston Peninsula, where he made 23 First XI appearances. Mann’s homecoming as assistant coach adds experience to the Eagles’ top order, joining forces with recent star recruit Chris Brittain. Watch out, bowlers – Somerville’s batting arsenal is locked and loaded!

Nick Mann batting for the Heat.

ISLAND CHANGES

Long Island’s looks set for a roster shuffle, possibly to lose a chunk of experience.

All-rounder Aaron Barrett has made the move to Frankston YCW and fast bowler Matt Shimell is likely to hang up his boots.

Fellow paceman Daniel Kelly, contrary to rumours, isn’t Somerville-bound. He’s set to step into Shimell’s shoes in the First XI.

Long Island champion Tom Boxell is unlikely to play but will stick around in a coaching capacity.

Premiership all-rounder Zac Wilson’s future is uncertain — it’s Long Island or retirement for him.

IMPORTS ISLAND BOUND

Still at Long Island and they will add two UK players, including a batsman from the strong Bradford league, and a promising young spinner. The Islanders’ leadership will be unchanged, with Stuart Swift to continue as coach, and Aiden McKenna as captain. Jackson Burke is set for a First XI comeback after knee injury recovery.

BOOST FOR DEMONS

Rye has bolstered its coaching staff, appointing Darrin Long as head of player development. Long’s focus is to nurture under-25 talent. The club aims to rejuvenate while maintaining competitiveness. “We are keen to get younger, but not at the expense of winning,’’ the club said.

LANGY REGAINS YOUNG GUN

Nathan Guinea has returned to Langwarrin after five years at Casey South Melbourne, where he most recently captained the Third XI. “A talented wicket-keeper batsman and a quality person on and off the field, Nathan brings valuable experience and leadership back to the club,’’ Langwarrin said on social media.

WHISPERS

• Pines’ wicketkeeper conundrum looks to be solved, with Glen Iris gloveman Tom McDermott tipped to join the premiership-winning Piners, filling the void left by Rikki Anstiss’s retirement. McDermott brings top-order batting prowess and leadership experience.

• Old Peninsula chasing a Premier Cricket bowler.

• Big hitting Dylan O’Malley staying put at Old Peninsula, despite Pines’ keen interest.