CRICKET truly runs in the veins of the McNicholas family, and on Saturday it was on full display as father Tony and sons Kyle, Darcy and Joel took to the field together for Kilmore Club North. The rare four-member family line-up became the story of the day as Kilmore claimed a strong win over Hanging Rock.
For the McNicholas clan, cricket is more than a sport, it’s a shared lifelong passion. Kyle’s connection to the game began early, attending his first match at just six months old at the MCG. Years later, he and his brothers now stand beside their father in the same team, carrying forward a family tradition that grows stronger every season.
Saturday’s clash with Hanging Rock highlighted that bond, with both Kyle and Darcy making major contributions with the ball. Kyle struck early, dismissing Hanging Rock openers Peter Connor and Peter Walsh for ducks, putting Kilmore firmly in control.
Darcy followed with an equally decisive spell, taking three wickets, two more ducks plus a sharp caught-and-bowled that lifted team spirits. Hanging Rock eventually fell for 108, giving Kilmore a clear target.
When it was Kilmore’s turn to bat, Darcy again set the tone. His confident and composed 42 runs anchored the innings and ensured the run chase never wavered. Kilmore powered past the 108 target with ease, finishing at 2/110.
Such was the dominance of the top order that Tony and Joel didn’t need to pick up the bat — but their presence on the field completed a memorable family moment.
Kilmore walked away 2/110 to Hanging Rock’s 10/108, but for the McNicholas family, the score was only part of the story. Sharing the field together was the real victory, proving once again that for this family, cricket isn’t just a game, it’s who they are.
