Australian sporting legend Merv Hughes is a recognisable character, not only for his success but also for his unwavering handlebar moustache! One of Victoria’s sons, Hughes has always been celebrated for his enthusiastic approach to life and his hunger for the sport that he so notably thrived in.

Within his international career, Hughes managed to play in 53 Test matches, 33 One Day Internationals and a very notable hat trick in the 1988-89 Test match against the West Indies. Hughes’ most revered performance was witnessed in the 1993 Ashes tour, where he helped secure Australia’s victory against England.

Hughes’ enthusiasm and service for the sport did not end after his retirement. Hughes featured in the Canberra Comets during their experimental phase into domestic one-day cricket, and then became a veteran for Footscray. The same club set him on his professional cricket journey 20 years prior. These forays catapulted him into high-level administration, and Hughes became an Australian selector in 2005. Hughes’ love and commitment to the sport didn’t end there, however. Hughes later took on the role of bowling coach for the Melbourne Renegades, as well as a coach for the junior level team at Shaun Brown’s Coaching Clinics.

Hughes’ passion for the game transcends the pitch and spills on to the radio in his show ‘Stumps’. Hughes is also much loved for his regular appearances on Fox Sports’, ‘Inside Cricket’ and ‘The Back Page. His appearance on the infamous ‘I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here’ cast him straight into the hearts and minds of a wider Australian audience. His affable sense of humour and anecdotes are a joy to behold. Hughes is a must-see speaker.