Nick Stapleton - it's an honour
St George Cricket Club | January 31, 2023
Nick Stapleton is St George Cricket Club first grade player number 424 and the current first grade captain.
Joining the Dragons from Randwick Petersham for the 2015/16 season Nick Stapleton has carved out a tremendous contribution to the club so far.
He has won the Kerry O’Keeffe Medal for the Club Player of the Year in 4 consecutive seasons and for the 2020/21 season Nick was the joint winner of the Bill O’Reilly Medal along with UTS North Sydney Tom Jagot for the best and fairest in the NSW Premier Cricket.
Nick was named in the NSW Premier Cricket men’s first grade team of the year and to date he has scored just on 3,700 first grade runs for St George and taken 157 wickets.
Let’s find out more about Nick and his journey so far,
What year you were born?
1992
If you can share with our readers how you would describe yourself as a cricketer?
All-rounder – right arm bat and bowler
What’s been your most memorable moment in cricket so far?
Being asked to Captain St George first grade team is a moment I’ll never forget. The club has such a rich history and all those involved at the club are outstanding people. Still pinch myself to this day!
Nick batting for St George
At what age did you make your first grade debut?
19
Who’s your favourite all-time cricketer?
Split decision between Simon Katich and AB de Villiers
Simon Katich
Who is the fastest bowler you’ve played against?
Mitchell Starc.
Who is the best spinner you’ve played against?
Steve O’Keefe. His accuracy and subtle changes in pace make him a nightmare to try and score off. Let’s you know about any false shots too which is a bonus!
Who played the best innings you’ve seen firsthand playing with or against?
I never thought I’d see a better innings than Blake MacDonalds’ 156 against UNSW a few years ago but I was proven wrong this year by Andrew Walsh’s 208 against North Sydney.
At 6 for 50 odd chasing 350 we were looking at being sent in again. Walshy had other plans and was belting the ball all over Hurstville. The closer we got to the score the more focused Walshy became – and eventually the miracle was pulled off. He’s been on Alan Jones and the Big Sports Breakfast since, so hopefully he doesn’t forget about his mates.
Andrew Walsh
Who are the two players in NSW Premier Cricket you’ve come to admire most in terms of skills and competitive spirit in the competitions you played?
Adam Semple – an outstanding all-rounder who can win a game with both bat and ball. He’s a fierce competitor who plays the game in the right way. Has hit some of the biggest sixes I’ve ever seen and bowls with consistent pace for long spells. Also a Sharks supporter which is the icing on the cake.
Nathan Ellis – you won’t come across someone with a bigger heart than Nelly. Works harder than anyone I’ve come across and bowls himself into the ground on game day. Took a chance to move to Tasmania and his performances at the next level are a just reward for plenty of effort and consistent wickets.
Adam Semple
Who was the best wicket keeper you’ve seen firsthand playing with or against?
I’ve been blessed in terms of the wicket keepers I’ve played with and seen. Both Anthony Sams and Jonathan Rose are brilliant with the gloves. Also playing against Ash Doolan for a while now – he is as good as I’ve seen. They all make hard catches look easy and very rarely put down a chance.
Who was the best captain you had the good fortune to play with?
Trent Copeland – a wonderful cricket brain but he always does what is best for the team. Always makes sure you’re batting/bowling to a plan and has a way of helping you get out of tough situations mid game. I’ve learnt a lot from copes over the past few seasons and he continues to assist me when he comes back to grade.
Trent Copeland
Can you recall some banter or an exchange on the cricket field that still makes you laugh today?
Nothing that stands out or can be in print but it was always funny playing with Stewart McCabe.
Who’s been the biggest influence on your career so far?
Definitely my parents – they have supported me in everything I’ve done so far in life. Dad still comes to games and supports from the side.
In terms of my cricketing development, both Gavan Twining and Dean Gilchrist have played significant roles. Two genuinely nice people and coaches who tailor their approach to the individual.
Where do you find inspiration that gets you through challenging times?
My family is always there for me when times get a bit tough and I know they are there to give me some advice when needed. I also have an extremely supportive girlfriend by my side – Denise still has no idea how the game works (she’s Irish) but she doesn’t let that get in the way of helping.
Who are the three people in the world you’d love to have a chat to in person?
Trey Parker/Matt Stone, Adam Sandler and David Peachey.
David Peachey
What do you like to do to relax outside cricket?
Watching the mighty Cronulla Sharks, beating Trent Copeland in his own Supercoach comp (which he’s paid to do be good at!) and spending time with family/friends.
You’re the first grade captain of St George Cricket Club. A club with a history of so many Australian cricket legends. What does it mean to you personally to be the first grade captain?
It means everything to me. It’s an extremely daunting task when I think about it given the history of the club and the people that have taken on the role prior to me. It’s something I have never taken for granted and I always try to perform to the best of my ability in the role.
What’s your occupation?
I’m a Resource Consultant at Momenta Group
Do you have a favourite quote?
“Not Out”
Can we ask, what would it mean to you to play for first class cricket?
It would be a dream come true to represent NSW. There are so many brilliant cricketers in the state so all you can do is perform at your best and if you’re lucky an opportunity might present.
NSW Premier Cricket - 2020/21 Men's First Grade team of the year
