It's every cricketers’ dream to represent England in Australia.
Now Clacton stalwart John Stuck can claim to have done just that, after producing a star performance for their over-60s side during a tour Down Under.
He played in two warm-up games, plus a competition against various states during his month in Oz.
But the undoubted highlight was appearing in the inaugural (unofficial) ‘Test’ between England and Australia’s over-60s sides near Melbourne.
Stuck, a member of Clacton Cricket Club since 1963, helped his side win by seven wickets and was voted best batsman, for which he received a replica Don Bradman bat.
He scored an undefeated 40, before being forced to retire under the rules of veterans cricket out there, as England successfully chased down their target of 132.
And Stuck, who lives in Middleton Close, Clacton, told the Gazette: “I’d never been to Australia before and didn’t think I’d ever get the chance to play cricket there for England.
“It’s great to be able to say that now and the trip was definitely up there with my cricketing highlights, although nothing compares with the thrill of representing my county (Suffolk).
“It was fantastic and very special for me and there’s a chance I may go back for another tournament out there next year, this time in Tasmania.
“It largely depends on finances because it’s an expensive thing to do.”
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