Harry Dixon and Oliver Peake Victoria’s cricketing landscape is undergoing a transformative phase, characterized by the emergence of a new generation of talented players. These young athletes have not only showcased exceptional skills during their debut seasons but have also earned promotions and accolades, signaling a promising future for Victorian cricket.
Aussie Under-19 World Cup champions Harry Dixon and Oliver Peake are set to play a key role in Victoria’s squad next season, having secured contract upgrades following standout performances to close out the 2024-25 campaign.
The talented batting duo, regarded among the state’s most promising young players, made their Sheffield Shield debuts in the second half of last summer. Both left-handers impressed immediately, notching half-centuries in their maiden innings for Victoria.
Dixon and Peake also featured in the Big Bash League for the Melbourne Renegades during the latter stages of the KFC BBL|14 season. Dixon further enhanced his credentials with a blistering 57 off 37 balls in just his second outing for Victoria’s one-day side.
With national selectors already taking notice, the pair are widely seen as future stars of Australian cricket.
Fergus O’Neill: Fast-Tracking to Stardom
Fergus O’Neill, a 24-year-old fast bowler, has rapidly ascended the ranks with his outstanding performances. During the 2024–25 Sheffield Shield season, he claimed 38 wickets. Earning the prestigious Sheffield Shield Player of the Year award. His success continued overseas, taking 21 wickets at an average of 17.9 in just four matches for Nottinghamshire in England. Despite eligibility to represent New Zealand or Ireland, O’Neill remains committed to playing for Australia. Drawing inspiration from Victorian teammate Scott Boland’s late-career success.
Oliver Peake: Continuing the Family Legacy
Born in Geelong, Oliver Peake, son of former Victorian cricketer Clinton Peake, has made significant strides in his cricketing career. After impressive performances in the Second XI and a stint with the Australian Test team in Sri Lanka, Peake debuted in the Big Bash League for the Melbourne Renegades. He also made his first-class debut in the Sheffield Shield, scoring a commendable 52 runs. Recognizing his potential, Cricket Victoria awarded him a rookie state contract in May 2025.
Harry Dixon: A Prodigy in the Making
Harry Dixon, a left-handed batsman and right-arm off-spinner, has quickly become a name to watch. In his first-class debut for Victoria, he top-scored with 66 runs against Tasmania. He continued to impress in the one-day format, scoring 57 runs in his second match. His consistent performances earned him a full state contract in May 2025.
Akshay Ramkumar: The Mystery Spinner
At just 16, Akshay Ramkumar made his First XI debut for Casey South Melbourne in the Victorian Premier Cricket season, becoming the youngest debutant of 2024–25. Known for his “mystery” spin, he delivered impressive figures in his debut matches, taking 1-16 and 1-23. His unique bowling style and control have positioned him as an exciting prospect for the future.
Cricket Victoria’s Development Programs
Cricket Victoria’s commitment to nurturing young talent is evident through initiatives like the Targeted Rookie Program. This high-performance initiative offers individualized programming, skill development, and leadership sessions, aiming to prepare emerging players for professional cricket.
Additionally, the 2024–25 U17 Male Emerging Players Program provides young cricketers with technical, tactical, and physical development opportunities, working closely with experienced coaches to prepare them for elite cricket.
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