From local club games to international tours, Ben’s journey shows how sport can shape character, create community, and open doors to unforgettable experiences.
Ben has always enjoyed sport, but cricket is where he’s invested most of his energy over the years. While he has dabbled in many codes, cricket is the one that “stuck,” offering both challenge and connection.
Have you always been good at sport?
I’ve always enjoyed sport, and I’ve generally held my own, but cricket is definitely where I’ve put most of my time and energy over the years. It’s the sport that’s stuck with me.
Why cricket?
It’s the blend of strategy, skill, patience, and teamwork that really draws me in. I enjoy the challenge of continually trying to improve small parts of my game. Plus, the social side of cricket is unbeatable — it’s a sport that brings people together.
Does anyone else in the family play?
Yes — my father, Peter, still plays. He’s part of the Otago Over‑60s team, so between us we’re keeping the Masters cricket scene well represented.
Did you ever think of taking it up professionally?
No, I’ve always played for the enjoyment of it rather than with professional ambitions. But cricket has still taken me on some incredible journeys — including internationally — so I feel very fortunate.
Have you won any awards?
Most recently, I was part of the Canterbury/Otago Over‑40s team that won the national tournament in Whanganui, which was a huge highlight. Over the years at University Grange Cricket Club, I’ve picked up a few club awards, but the Over‑40s national title definitely tops the list.
Have you been overseas with cricket?
In October last year, I travelled with a New Zealand Masters Cricket squad on a two‑week tour of India. The group had 24 players from around the country, and it was incredible experiencing cricket in a place where the sport is woven into everyday life. We spent time in Delhi, Agra (including a visit to the Taj Mahal), and Bhopal.
What was the highlight?
Visiting the Taj Mahal was unforgettable, but playing cricket in India was a highlight in itself — the passion from local supporters, the energy at grounds, and the way people live and breathe cricket made the whole experience pretty special.
What did you learn?
I learned a lot about how deeply cricket runs in Indian culture, and I picked up plenty of on‑field lessons too — adapting to the conditions, adjusting tactics, and understanding different approaches to the game. It was also a good reminder of how important flexibility and teamwork are when you’re in new environments.
Anything you struggled with?
The heat was a big adjustment! Even in October it was intense. The pitches behaved differently to what we’re used to in Dunedin, and the crowds were extremely enthusiastic — all great challenges, but challenges nonetheless.
What volunteer roles do you have involving cricket?
I play for University Grange Cricket Club, which I joined back in 2001, and I’m currently President of the Committee. I’m also on the steering committee setting up Otago Over‑40s Cricket as its own entity, following the success of the recent national tournament. It’s exciting being part of building opportunities for Masters players in our region.
Is there anything you’ve learned from playing cricket / being in a team that you apply in your work?
Absolutely. Cricket teaches patience, building trust, and staying composed under pressure — all directly useful in leadership and team‑based work. You learn that success relies on everyone doing their part and supporting each other, not just individual moments.