A wicketkeeper-batsman, Emery played for New South Wales between 1988 and 1999. He holds the records for most dismissals in NSW First Class (378) and One-Day (81) cricket. He captained NSW in 33 First Class matches, leading the team to their 41st and 42nd Shield titles in 1992-93 and 1993-94. Overall, Phil was a member of three Sheffield Shield and four One-Day title-winning teams. Scoring over 3,000 first class runs, with 17 fifties and a century, this middle order left-hander averaged over 26.

Emery toured with the Australian Test Team to Sri Lanka and Pakistan in 1994-95. In the Third Test at Lahore, Emery took five dismissals in the Pakistan second innings, and six for the match. Emery also played in the final of the Wills Triangular Series against Pakistan, which Australia won, claiming three dismissals behind the stumps

A great team man, Phil played his entire Sydney District Cricket career with Gordon. He is currently the Senior Vice President of the Club. In 2002 he was made a life member of the NSWCA.

Phil holds a Bachelor's degree in Economics and a Diploma in Financial Services.

Phil's father, Neville, represented Australia in rugby, touring with the Wallabies in 1947-48 and 1949. Phil was also a keen rugby player and has played first grade for both Gordon and Sydney University.