Join Deakin Cricket Club

Come for the cricket, stay for the community at Deakin Cricket Club

Deakin Cricket Club is more than just a place to play sport. It’s where students build friendships, develop skills and feel part of something bigger. From its name to its location near campus, the club is closely connected to Deakin life. Whether you’re stepping onto the field for the first time, returning after a break or a seasoned player, you’ll find a welcoming, tight-knit community that’s passionate about the game and even more passionate about supporting one another. It’s where shared wins turn into lifelong memories and where the experience off the field is just as rewarding as what happens on it.

More than just a game

Current Deakin student, Yasiru Rabel hadn’t played club cricket in over 10 years, but when a friend mentioned they were looking for players, he decided to give it a go. He was welcomed straight in and quickly found more than just a team. "I’ve made a lot of friends through the club" Yasiru says. "Most of us live nearby, so it’s easy to meet outside of training sessions".

Getting involved in the club has been a big part of Anthony Grizos’ post-Deakin experience – helping him stay active, pick up new skills and make lasting friendships along the way. "Joining the club has allowed me to connect with students from different faculties" he says.

For Vaibhav Kashyap, who moved to Australia to study at Deakin, the club helped him feel at home and has provided him with opportunities beyond playing. Now the club’s Vice President, he has taken on roles ranging from player to social media coordinator. He says it’s a great place to learn and lead. "Deakin Cricket Club is a true community club, with its members serving as the backbone of its success". Members can also volunteer to umpire and score matches, organise social gatherings and assist with team management.

A season to remember

The 2024–25 season was one of the club’s best. They had 91 registered members/players, including seven women. Around 70 percent are current Deakin students and most of the rest are alumni. Teams trained hard and supported each other – with one team even winning a flag!

Winning that first game of the season gave Yasiru and his teammates the belief they needed to carry their momentum all the way to the playoffs.

Vaibhav’s highlight came at the end of it all. "Celebrating the flag win after months of effort and teamwork is something I’ll never forget" he says.

Anthony’s standout moment was playing in a semifinal and taking the final wicket to seal the win. Surrounded by teammates, it reminded him exactly why he got involved in the first place.

Ready to join?

All three students agree that the club has been a highlight of their Deakin experience, thanks to its welcoming vibe and infectious energy. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, they all say give it a go! For Vaibhav, it’s the energy and atmosphere that makes the club so special – something that stays with you long after the game ends.

"The enthusiasm on the field is incredible and truly contagious. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss."

Whether you’re new to cricket or looking for a competitive team, Deakin Cricket Club is a great way to connect with the Deakin community and make the most of uni life.

Follow the Deakin Cricket Club on Instagram or Facebook to see what the club is up to and message to get involved for the 2025–26 season.

This article was originally published by Deakin Life. Reproduced with permission.