Mitchell Gunning has etched his name in the history books as the first Canberra Gator to debut for the ACT Rockets — Australia’s reigning back-to-back National Indoor Cricket Champions. A true juggernaut of the sport, the Rockets are chasing a historic third consecutive title this season. Their dominance was on full display last year, with six players earning selection to the Australian national team. Now, for the first time in nearly six years, the squad welcomes two exciting new rookies into the fold: Mitchell Gunning and Brad Millynn
Now, for the first time in nearly six years, the Rockets have welcomed two exciting rookies into their ranks: Mitchell Gunning and Brad Millynn.
Mitch’s cricket journey began at the Kaleen Indoor Sports Centre, where he played for the Kaleen Gators during the height of the ACT Superleague era. He was a standout in the 3rd Grade, earning MVP honours as part of the Kaleen Blue premiership-winning side.
Originally stepping back from high-level competition, Mitch returned to play with the Gators at the Club World Series — more for camaraderie than career — but a stellar tournament as captain reignited his competitive fire. He showcased elite form across batting, bowling, and fielding, prompting his selection for the ACT U22s in 2023. Mitch played a pivotal role in taking that team to a national semi-final
Since then, he’s taken on the role of Club Coach for the Gators and broken into 1st Grade outdoor cricket with Western Districts, showing rapid development and maturity. His selection for the ACT Rockets is a fitting reward for his perseverance, skill, and character.
The debut for Mitch couldn't have gone any better, hitting 29 in a skin with Australian representative Sam Dywer with 22 off his own stick, then taking three wickets in his first over and finishing 3/-9. Gunning also bowled 5 dot balls which is building immense pressure in the revised second-ball format. He finished with the player of the game in his debut against South Australia.
In the afternoon fixture against Queensland, Mitch impressed again. Batting with mentor Lukey Ryan, he added 32 runs and delivered another economical bowling performance, finishing with 0/13 and four dot balls. It was a solid follow-up showing and a valuable learning experience at the Open Men’s level.
The Canberra Gators are immensely proud of Mitch and his journey from club cricket to the national stage. With such a strong start, there’s every reason to believe he has a long and successful career ahead in the blue and yellow.
Meanwhile, the future is looking bright for the Gators, with rising stars Sam Manton and Jack Gunning shining in the U22s. The pair are averaging 19.33 and 17 respectively with the bat and have taken five wickets between them. They were instrumental in the team’s dominant 143–64 win over Victoria and each earned Player of the Match honours against NSW and WA.
The Gators’ footprint on the national scene is growing — and with performances like these, it’s only just the beginning.
