BJ Watling Scholarship Fund
ABOUT BJ
BJ Watling was a wicket keeper–batsman that played 75 test matches for Blackcaps between the years of 2009 and 2021.
His final test was the World Test Championship Final against India, which New Zealand won. In his time playing test match cricket, BJ scored 8 centuries, with a highest score of 205 against England at Bay Oval in 2019.
BJ, currently holds the record for most dismissals by a New Zealand wicketkeeper.
BJ, lived in Tokoroa for three years before moving to Hamilton, where he was educated at Hamilton Boys High School. He played first class cricket for Northern Districts Cricket Association between the years of 2004 and 2021, accumulating 178 first class appearances.
BJ Watling was a respected member of the New Zealand national cricket team. He strived to play the game with respect, courage, humility, integrity and loyalty. The same values that Seddon Cricket Club promote to all cricketers.
The Scholarship
The Seddon Cricket Club, in conjunction with BJ Watling, is proud to offer BJ Watling Scholarships. Each year players, coaches, administrators and umpires who display impressive potential, will have the opportunity to receive a scholarship.
Purpose
These scholarships are designed to support recipients with the cost of initiatives, that have the capacity to develop their skills, knowledge and potential, to help them excel in their future cricketing endeavours.
Value
Each scholarship offered will range from $2,000 - $5,000 each year, to an undetermined number of recipients.
Eligibility
Candidates must:
Be 16 years old or over.
Be a New Zealand citizen and reside within the Northern Districts Cricket Association boundary.
Have demonstrated a level of participation in the sport of cricket e.g. club player, coach, umpire, representative pathways programme, administrator.
Be available for an interview, if required.
Application dates for 2025/2026
Scholarship Term - From 1st May 2025 to 30 April 2026
Opening date 1 February 2025
Closing date 1 March 2025