Monbulk’s Best XII (1897–2022)
Best XII cricketers in Monbulk Cricket Club’s 125-year history. Selected for excellence, longevity, leadership, loyalty, sportsmanship, and impact on the club, these players represent the strongest combined lineup Monbulk has ever produced. Together they have amassed 19 premierships, 73 batting awards, 60 bowling awards, 30 club champion titles, and numerous association honours.
1. Frank Anderson – Opening Bat
A steady and reliable opener from the 1920s–50s, Anderson made more than 4,000 runs in a bowler-dominated era. His consistency and leadership made him one of Monbulk’s earliest greats.
2. Len Fleming (Captain & Wicketkeeper)
Leader of four straight A-grade premierships in the 1950s, Fleming was an automatic MDCA representative captain. A dependable opener and strong wicketkeeper.
3. Ken Utting – First Drop
One of FTGDCA’s greatest batsmen, Utting scored more than 7,800 runs with 20 centuries. Technically brilliant and mentally tough, he was central to Monbulk’s rise from the late 1970s onward.
4. Jason Fraser – All-Round Superstar
Monbulk’s greatest modern cricketer with over 11,400 runs, 24 centuries, and 445 wickets. A once-in-a-generation all-rounder whose records may never be matched.
5. Lance Symons (Vice-Captain)
A tactically gifted leader and quality all-rounder, Symons averaged over 40 with the bat and took 87 wickets. One of the finest captains of his generation.
6. Don Matthews – Middle Order & Medium Pace
A champion of the 1950s–70s with 13 batting awards and six bowling awards. Hard-hitting, skilful, and dependable over two decades.
7. Colin Jonas – All-Rounder
Scored 3,600+ runs and took 178 wickets. Brilliant in the field and versatile enough to open both batting and bowling when needed.
8. Max James – Leg-Spin Master
Monbulk’s greatest leg spinner with at least 429 wickets and strong batting ability. A regular representative player who once starred against a touring West Indies team.
9. Ken Fleming – Fast Bowler
The club’s greatest bowler with 528 wickets. Devastatingly accurate and central to Monbulk’s 1950s golden era.
10. Ted Mattingley – Fast Bowler
A tall, intimidating quick with 205 wickets in just seven seasons (average 7.7). Holds the single-season wickets record (67).
11. Mick Surwald – Left-Arm Spinner
Took 489 wickets with superb accuracy and economy. A first-slip specialist and ideal No. 11.
12. Dennis Colee – 12th Man (All-Rounder)
A fiercely competitive club legend with 445 wickets and 2,500+ runs. Loyal, tough, and admired—earning the final spot ahead of several strong contenders.