The Margaret River Hawks Cricket Club go into round three of the Busselton Margaret River Cricket Association eager to get on the park after two byes and a forfeit win on the weekend.
After a fantastic win in Round One, the A grade side is looking forward to hosting arch rivals Cowaramup at the Nest and are keen to claim bragging rights in the first match between the teams this year.
With the Duggan Penfold Shield up for grabs, an early win would give the Hawks a great start for the season ahead.
Shane Joyce was the outstanding batsmen in round 1 against last year’s grand finalists while captain Paul Tognolini was as solid as he has been in the previous seasons. New Hawk Gareth Edmonds will be keen to impress his new side after not getting a chance to bat in his debut match.
Although not expecting to come up against the true pace of past Cowaramup import Buddhi Sanjeewa, the Hawks expect some tight bowling from the visitors and don’t expect it to come easy.
Shinnick will be looking to include youth with opening batsman Aeodhan Bailey and opening bowler Taj Thomas just two of the exciting juniors coming through the ranks.
- The Hawk
With the rumour mill in full circle that Sam Berridge and Adrian Woodward are expecting to make their comebacks this weekend, the Hawks will have to be at their best to claim victory.
Rumesh Silva will be intent on making some runs after failing in round 1 while Kade Dittmar will be hoping to put more runs on the board after a fantastic defensive innings against Small Boyce two weeks ago enabled the Hawks to regain control.
Peter Crimp, Silva and Chris McLean will be looking at turning the ball square on a pitch that Silva will no doubt prepare to suit his game. This should be a great match come 12.30pm Saturday and all supporters are encouraged to come down and cheer on your local team.
While the A grade lads are hosting Cowaramup, Maurice Shinnick’s B grade side will be looking forward to hosting Vasse at the Nest.
With a number of inclusions due to come in to the side from round 1, and training numbers the best in recent seasons, Shinnick will have a good problem in who to leave out come selection night.
Leigh Westcott, Michael Earl and Col Baker are all available this week to add to the team that looked solid against last years premiers in the first round.
Shinnick will be looking to include youth in this season’s teams with opening batsman Aeodhan Bailey and opening bowler Taj Thomas just two of the exciting juniors coming through the ranks.
Bailey impressed with a team high 40 in the first round while Thomas has put in a great pre season and is flourishing in the Nest this year.
Danny Weston’s C grade side will travel to Dunsborough this weekend after a forfeit by Cowaramup last weekend sees the C grade sitting atop of the ladder without actually playing a game.
A brilliant mix of senior players and juniors will encourage some good banter with the enthusiasm of youth to ensure a memorable season ahead.
The Hawks world renowned Margaret River T20 big Bash is also gearing up wth the first games to be held on November 7. Chief organisers Mike Newman and “Umpire Neil” have again put in countless hours getting this season to be the best one seasons yet.
For all enquiries, contact Al Wilkie on 0419 957 799 or visit www.facebook.com/margaretriverhawkscricketclub. Training is every Tuesday and Thursday from 4.45pm at Gloucester Park. All gear supplied, great times guaranteed!
