The Norm Smith medallist cracked a brilliant century in a guest appearance with Emu Creek’s division three side.

Hodge played alongside childhood mates Matthew Jackson and Dave McVeigh against Marong at Strathfieldsaye.

“Luke had been trying to get up here to play a game with us for a couple of years,’’ Emu Creek division three skipper Rod Southon said yesterday.

“He hadn’t picked up a bat for a few years, but he can still hit a ball.’’

Hodge (100) and Jackson (104 not out) put on 175 for the second wicket to lead Emu Creek to victory.

Marong junior Zac Turnbull has a great story to tell his mates when he returns to school after he dismissed Hodge.

Earlier, Hodge showed his prowess with the ball, taking 3-19 off eight overs.

“Apparently Luke played for Victoria schoolboys as a 15 and 16-year-old before he joined the Geelong Falcons,’’ Southon said.

“He only bowled off a 10-yard run, but he can bowl quick.’’

In a high-scoring game, youngster Andrew Gladstone made a hard-hitting 103 not out for Marong.