Palmerston C.C.’s Chris McGregor reaches 300 game milestone

He’s a cricketing tragic that’s done a bit of everything throughout his two-decade career. Read why Chris McGregor says his time at the crease isn’t over just yet.

Chris McGregor brought up his 300th cap at the weekend. Picture: Supplied.

Banter, camaraderie and post-season trips to Dundee Beach have all played their part in helping Chris McGregor reach a triple-ton.

Running out for his 300th DDCC cap at the weekend, McGregor’s been playing cricket for as long as he can remember.

A junior at Tracy Village, McGregor took some time off, returning to his childhood club in 2008.

He then spent four years at University C.C., eventually finding his home at Palmerston C.C. in 2017.

With most of his senior career spent between Sunday-league and C-grade, the 44-year-old said reaching the milestone was a moment he’ll never forget.

“It was massive to reach 300,” he said.

“It definitely feels like I’ve had to play 20 years to get here, the body feels it.

“My teammates were great, we had a small celebration back at the club.”

A man that’s done a bit of everything, McGregor is hoping to add a few more achievements to his poolroom before he hangs up the willow for good.

“I’ve been an all rounder throughout my career, but I did start as a medium pacer, eventually becoming a batter,” he said.

“I’m currently close to 8000 runs and I’ve taken over 350 wickets, which takes me into the top 15 batters and top 30 wicket takers of all time in the DDCC.

“Hopefully I can win one or two more flags with this group before we all retire, or until the body says you have had enough.

“I’d also love to finish my career on 10,000 runs and 500 wickets.”

Chris McGregor proudly sporting his beloved Palmerston C.C kit. Picture: Supplied.

A busy man who juggles his time between his young family, his job, and of course fishing, McGregor put his longevity in the game down to mates, banter, fines and teaching the juniors.

“The main reason that’s kept me going has been the core group of older players that we have in our team,” he said.

“A lot of banter and a lot of fines has also helped, which we use on our postseason trip to Dundee.

“We go away on a Dundee trip each year at the end of the season and spend our fines money.

“And getting to see the younger generation grow to great cricketers, and move up the grades is rewarding to be a part of.”

McGregor won’t be the only one to reach the 300 mark this season, with his close friend and teammate Glen Chatto also set to make the milestone.

“A lot of generations of Chattos have gone through our club, and this one has always been a great club man,” he said.

“He’s a hard hitting top order batsman that has sent many bowlers to the moon, and we would’ve loved to have both reached the milestone at the same time but unfortunately injuries have prevented that.

“So the big celebration will be on July 27 when we do the dual celebration at our home ground.”