Structured Veterans Cricket matches started in Australia in the 90’s and up until 2007 were played amongst teams from regional centres and in general played between players who had finished their grade cricket careers and looked to maintain their interest in their game of choice. Generally, cricket at the veteran’s level catered for players who were in the 40s+ age demographic and at the stage of life that there best cricket was behind them but still had a desire to continue playing. 

Local competitions were not really structured to accommodate veterans teams but in 2006 John Hammer  from Victoria changed the landscape and set about creating what would eventually become known as Veterans Cricket Australia as we know it today by creating a competition between over 60’s teams from the ACT, NSW, Tasmania, Victoria (2 sides) and a combined team of players from everywhere.
 

As a result of John’s vision way back then we now have over 100 teams from every state, one territory as well as New Zealand competing in national competitions in 40’s, 50’s, 55’s, 60’s 70’s and women’s and the opportunity for multiple international tours each year, either as touring parties or the host nation and despite the pandemic in 2020/21 we have seen the numbers increase from just over 4000 to nearly 6000 participants over those years according to our census in April 2023. 

Apart from the opportunities for players we have also created an opportunity for umpires, partners and spectators to get more involved and has created a whole new lifestyle in later years revolving around our great game of cricket. Touring with the best cricketers of your age group and their partners creates a special bond and friendships are created with opposition players and partners that last a life time. 

From the formative years we are now an incorporate body and the very clear role of Veterans Cricket Australia is to continue to foster the game of cricket amongst the older age demographics (both male and female), create future growth opportunities and support the members as best we can. We can only do that with the support of our sponsors, Cricket Australia, state associations and of course you, our members.

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