Spirit of Cricket Tour – Harrow 2025: A Journey Through Cricket, Culture & Camaraderie
- Anthony Telfer
- Mar 24
- 3 min read
Cricket is more than just a game—it’s a story woven through time, a connection between past and present. And there’s no better place to experience this than Harrow, Victoria, home to one of cricket’s most inspiring yet untold histories.
From May 23rd - 26th, 2025, the Spirit of Cricket Tour will take players on an unforgettable journey that combines competitive cricket, rich cultural heritage, and lifelong camaraderie.
This is an opportunity to step onto the legendary Mullagh Oval, walk in the footsteps of Australia’s first international cricket team, and immerse yourself in the story of Johnny Mullagh and the 1868 Aboriginal tour of England.
A Historic Venue: Mullagh Oval
For any cricketer, playing on the Mullagh Oval is an experience to treasure. Named after Johnny Mullagh, the star all-rounder of the ground breaking 1868 Aboriginal team, this ground holds a special place in Australian cricket history.
The Spirit of Cricket Tour will feature three x T20 matches, giving players the chance to showcase their skills on a pitch that echoes with the legacy of pioneers.
Beyond the Boundary: Discovering Harrow’s History
While cricket is at the heart of the tour, the cultural experience is just as compelling. Participants will visit the Harrow Discovery Centre, where the story of the 1868 team comes to life. This was no ordinary team—it was a group of remarkable Aboriginal cricketers who, against all odds, became Australia’s first sporting ambassadors. Their journey, resilience, and talent are still widely unrecognized, making this tour an opportunity to connect with an extraordinary chapter of the game’s history.
Background to the Untold Story
In 1868, a remarkable chapter in Australian cricket history unfolded when the first Aboriginal cricket team embarked on a ground breaking tour of England. Comprising 13 Indigenous players from Western Victoria, the team played 47 matches across six months, impressing English crowds with their skill and athleticism.
Despite facing significant social and cultural barriers, these pioneers showcased extraordinary talent, with many excelling as both cricketers and all-around sportsmen. Their journey was not just about sport, it was a powerful statement of resilience and determination in the face of adversity, making them the first Australian cricket team to tour internationally, decades before the national team’s official debut.
Among the standout players was Johnny Mullagh (Unaarrimin), a gifted all-rounder from Harrow, Victoria, who became the tour’s star performer. Renowned for his exceptional batting, bowling, and fielding, Mullagh played in 45 of the 47 matches, scoring over 1,600 runs and taking 245 wickets. His cricketing ability earned the admiration of English spectators and cemented his legacy as one of Australia’s earliest sporting greats.
Today, the Johnny Mullagh Medal is awarded annually to the best player in Australia’s Boxing Day Test, honouring his contribution to cricket and ensuring the legacy of the 1868 team is never forgotten.
In addition, players and their partners will explore significant cultural and historical sites, gaining deeper insight into the rich Indigenous heritage of the region.
The tour will also feature the renowned Harrow Sound & Light Show, an immersive theatrical experience that brings the past to life.
Cricket, Culture & Camaraderie
This tour is designed for cricketers aged 45-65, with a strictly limited 24-player capacity to ensure an intimate and engaging experience. It’s more than just a series of matches—it’s about celebrating cricket’s traditions, connecting with fellow enthusiasts, and paying homage to a story that deserves greater recognition.
Once registered, participants will receive detailed itineraries, accommodation options, and pricing information.
Join the Spirit of Cricket Tour – Harrow 2025
Whether you’re a passionate cricketer, a lover of history, or simply someone who values the spirit of the game, this tour is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to play, learn, and connect.
Secure your spot today!
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