The next generation of Western Australian wicketkeepers have been identified, following the announcement of the 2025-26 Rod Marsh Wicketkeeping Academy scholarship holders.
Four New Faces In Latest Rod Marsh Wicketkeeping Academy Intake
Founded ahead of season 2023-24, the academy is the first specialist school of its kind in Australia and aims to educate the state’s next wave of wicketkeepers.
The program, supported by the WA Government and delivered by WA Cricket, will identify, develop and support male and female wicketkeepers as they progress from pathways to senior cricket.
WA Cricket Pathways Coach Male Programs Brian Shields will spearhead the Academy, while former WA women’s player Angele Gray and Scarborough gloveman Riley Mattingley will also provide support to scholarship holders.
Nine players (listed below) have been selected in the third intake, with each of them to receive one-on-one specialist coaching sessions throughout the season.
Scholarship holders will also have access to strength and condition programs tailored to the development of physical qualities specifically required for wicketkeepers.
The Academy’s formation will ensure Marsh’s outstanding contribution to cricket as a player, coach and administrator are passed on to some of the state’s most exciting prospects.
There have been four changes to last season’s intake, with Flynn Fazey, Alyssa Tremlett, Brayden Ginn and James Cardaci earning selection in season 2025-26.
Quotes attributable to WA Cricket High Performance Programs Manager Chris Brabazon:
“The Rod Marsh Wicket Keeping Academy has elevated our level of servicing for our talented young keepers in recent years and we really appreciate the support of the WA Government in bringing the Academy to fruition,” he said.
“The Academy also continues to provide opportunities for metro and regional coaches to learn more about wicketkeeping via our series of workshops held at community clubs and the WACA Ground.”
Rod Marsh Wicketkeeping Academy Members:
- Simon Budge – Melville Cricket Club
- Josh Nathan – Willetton Premier Cricket Club
- Flynn Fazey – Colts CC Bunbury / Claremont-Nedlands CC
- Veronica Keen – Midland-Guildford Cricket Club
- Alyssa Dermody – Perth Cricket Club
- Freya Lumb – South Perth Cricket Club
- Alyssa Tremlett – Midland-Guildford Cricket Club
- Brayden Ginn – Midland-Guildford Cricket Club
- James Cardaci – Fremantle District Cricket Club