Words by Joey Yovich:

Who said politics and sport can't work together?

It was a privilege to be involved in the annual New Zealand Parliamentary Cricket Fixture, hosted by Seddon Cricket Club (NZ) at the iconic Seddon Park in Hamilton. It's always an honour to be asked to captain the Seddon CC selection, a side that brings together passionate individuals, from seasoned cricketers to talented emerging players.

Backed by world-class facilities, these fixtures offer quality experiences that go well beyond the scoreboard. They provide space for genuine connection, mutual respect, and the kind of camaraderie that reminds us how sport can unite people across backgrounds, portfolios, and political parties.

It was a pleasure to reconnect with our Members of Parliament and gain fresh insights into their portfolios, all within a fun and relaxed setting. Always great to catch up with James Meager MP (National), captain of the Parliamentary XI and the driving force behind these popular and well-organised fixtures. Well done, James!

Great to see, as sporting enthusiasts, our politicians embracing the challenge out on the park. The Parliamentary XI was led by James, with strong support from Ryan Hamilton MP (National), Steve Abel MP (Greens), Greg O'Connor MP (Labour), Tim Costley MP (National), Tom Rutherford MP (National), Paul Goldsmith MP (National), and Mark Mitchell MP (National).

It’s always a pleasure reconnecting with fellow alumni and former internationals such as Matthew Hart, Kyle Mills, Rob Hart Robert Dunne and Ofisa Jnr Tonu'u, all of whom continue to give back to the game we love through events like this.

The Richard Seddon Cup, initiated by Seddon Cricket Club, has become a much-loved tradition, just like the ground itself. Originally set aside for recreation in 1864 and named after Prime Minister Richard Seddon in 1906, Seddon Park is steeped in history. It was fitting that this summer saw the return of the historic Plunket Shield to Seddon Park, with Northern Districts lifting the silverware after a 13-year wait.

Having played on many first-class and international venues over the years, I know just how rare it is to access such special experiences. It's a real credit to see organisations like Hamilton City Council (and in particular the ground staff at Seddon Park), Northern Districts Cricket Association and Seddon CC working to make them possible, not just for the high-performance game, but for the broader cricketing community.

For the record, Seddon CC were proud to be presented with the Richard Seddon Cup, evening up the ledger at 2–2 as we look ahead to next season’s fixture.

Cricket and sport in general continues to be more than a game. It's a platform for partnerships, greater understanding and relationships, perspective, and positive change. A huge thank you to everyone involved in supporting and leading this special annual event — a fitting way to close out the season.