In September and October 2024, 3 members of the Merrion men’s senior squad ventured down under to play their trade and improve their cricket in Australia ahead of the 2025 Irish season.
As the half-way point in their overseas adventures near and the mid-season Christmas break in the Australian cricket calendar draws closer we decided now would be a good time to check in on the 3 lads and see how their getting on.
Stephen Doheny
“I’m at Kensington District Cricket Club in the SACA Premier Grade Competition in Adelaide. I have played a mix of all three formats to date. I’ve really enjoyed playing out here so far and been able to put in some performances which is nice. We’ve got plenty of experienced players in our team with the likes of Jake Lehmann, Alex Ross & Wes Agar in the ranks, so lots of opportunity to learn. I’m expecting to be here until the end of January or middle of March where hopefully there’ll be some Irish tours, but so far I’m having a great time.”
“Adelaide is a nice, small city so it’s easy to get around. I’ve had the luxury of having a little bit of downtime, so have been able to check out some of the wine regions Adelaide has to offer. Still adjusting to the weather but all in all it’s a great place to be.”
Andrew Doheny
Stephen’s brother Andrew has also ventured down under, he’s playing his cricket in Melbourne at Brighton Cricket Club where fellow Merrion player Conor Austin played in winter 2023/24, he sa
“I’m really enjoying my time at Brighton Cricket Club, playing in the VSDCA competition in Melbourne. It’s been a brilliant trip so far having played one-day cricket, and had my first experience of two-day cricket. Our season has gotten off to a very good start start being unbeaten at this stage of the year, we hope to keep the good form up into the new year, and hopefully bring some silverware back to Brighton come the end of the season.”
“Melbourne city is nice with lots of great things to do and see so I’ve been kept busy whenever I’ve got some free time from cricket and work. The weather has been something I’ve had to adjust to but can’t complain being able to spend a few days on some of the amazing beaches Melbourne has to offer.
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Jamie Forbes
Jamie Forbes has been playing in Sydney over the last few months, where he’s linked up with fellow Irishman Gavin Hoey of Pembroke, with the pair performing well at University of New South Wales Cricket Club (UNSW), Jamie said the following about his time so far.
“It has been just under 3 months since I arrived over here in Sydney. I’m playing for UNSW which plays in the Sydney grade cricket competition. We have 5 men’s and two under age sides so club training sessions are always busy. I’m really enjoying my time over here in the club everyone has been super friendly.”
It’s great to do see all 3 doing so well both on and off the field in Australia, there is no doubt their time abroad will stand them in good stead for the Irish season ahead at Merrion in 2025. We wish the 3 lads all the best for the rest of their time in down under, and look forward to welcoming them back to the club ahead of next season.