While the winter chill settles over Cricket Path, Formby 2nd XI standout Ethan Mills has been finding plenty of heat-both in the weather and on the pitch. Currently spending the off-season Down Under with Beaumaris Cricket Club in Melbourne, Ethan took some time away from the nets to give us an update on life in the Southern Hemisphere.

For Ethan, the son of club treasurer Andy Mills, this isn't just a solo cricket mission; it’s a shared journey.
"It’s been a great experience so far out here," Ethan told us. "I’ve been lucky to share the experience with some of my best mates as well. It’s a beautiful part of the world. I’ve enjoyed meeting new people and even playing against some familiar faces from back home."

Living thousands of miles away can be tough, and Ethan admits that his family are what he misses most. However, a festive reunion provided the perfect boost. The Mills family headed out to Australia for Christmas and New Year, embarking on a tour of Sydney and Cairns.
The trip wasn't just a holiday; it was a bridge between Formby and the Aussie clubs that have sent players to us over the years. "It was really nice traveling with them and meeting up with some Aussies that have played for Formby in the past," Ethan noted, proving that the global cricket community is a small world indeed.

The Australian grade cricket scene is notoriously competitive, and Ethan has been testing himself against high-quality opposition. While he’s modest about his overall form, he highlighted a standout shift with the ball:
* Top Performance: 3/26 against Aspendale.
* Key Takeaway: Improved fielding intensity.
"I’ll admit I’ve not played my best out here, but hopefully I can improve in the summer," Ethan shared. "I definitely believe my fielding has improved, so hopefully I’ll bring back that same level of intensity to Formby."

Despite the beaches and the Melbourne sun, Ethan’s heart is still very much at Cricket Path. He already has his sights set on what he wants to achieve when he returns to the 2nd XI this summer.
The Goals for 2026:
* Top 4 Finish: Pushing the 2nd XI to the business end of the table.
* Silverware: Bringing a trophy back to the club.

It sounds like the "Beaumaris version" of Ethan Mills will be returning with sharper reflexes, a bit of Australian grit, and a hunger for success. We look forward to seeing him back in his Formby CC baggy very soon.