A memorable occasion in any cricketer’s career is his 1st Grade debut. In a recent discussion with Randwick Petersham Cricket historian Lyall Gardner, former Petersham-Marrickville player Steve Sullivan, was asked for a few details about his 1st Grade debut. Steve, or “Worm” as he is affectionately known, had been a very successful lower-grade player and was 23 at the time.
The match was the last day’s play of the 1982-83 season. Both Petersham-Marrickville and Randwick were defeated in the 1st Grade semi-final and in accordance with the rules at that time, were to play-off for third place in a one-day match at Coogee Oval. Graeme “Heaps” Hughes couldn’t play so it was decided it was time for Steve Sullivan to make his 1s Grade debut under the astute captaincy of Brian “Riles” Riley.
In his own words, here’s how Steve recalled his experience:
