At just 22 years old, former Blues playmaker Jock McKenzie has etched his name in Auckland’s sporting history by breaking a 68-year-old record. McKenzie’s exceptional talent extends beyond the rugby field, as he becomes the first individual since 1956 to represent Auckland in both rugby and cricket.
McKenzie showcased his rugby prowess in the 2022 Super Rugby Pacific season, featuring in three matches for the Blues, including a notable start at flyhalf against the NSW Waratahs in Sydney. However, his sporting journey goes beyond the try lines.
In a remarkable achievement, McKenzie took to the cricket pitch for the Auckland Aces, marking his debut with a stellar performance against the Otago Volts in New Zealand’s T20 Super Smash. Playing at the iconic Eden Park, McKenzie made an immediate impact by claiming three wickets in the match, contributing to the Aces’ victory.
Despite downplaying comparisons to legendary dual-sport athlete Jeff Wilson, McKenzie’s versatile skills have not gone unnoticed. Auckland NPC assistant coach Jono Hickey, a former professional in both cricket and rugby, commended McKenzie as a “talented young man” with a natural aptitude for both sports.
Describing McKenzie’s rugby skills, Hickey stated, “He’s a really nice skillset in rugby, a very natural kicker of the ball, good passing, and he’s got a really good read on the game as well. You can tell he’s just one of those youngsters that’s sort of good at everything and very natural.”
McKenzie’s cricket debut saw him take a dot with his first ball before swiftly dismissing Ollie White, marking a special moment at the revered Eden Park.
Reflecting on the experience, McKenzie expressed his enjoyment, stating, “It was special. It’s New Zealand’s ground, you could say. Not many people get to do it, so I was just trying to enjoy it and lap it up.”
As McKenzie navigates between rugby and cricket, a pivotal decision awaits him regarding his future in either sport. The choice could potentially lead to representing New Zealand in international competitions, and McKenzie is expected to make this significant decision soon.
“I’ll decide very soon. I’ve probably left it as late as I can. You’ll probably know sooner rather than later what one to do, but for the summer, I’m just playing cricket and focusing on that,” McKenzie affirmed.