By Tara Murray
The second time was just as sweet for Burnside Springs United’s Shohan Rangika as he claimed the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Russell Pollock player of the year award.
Having won the award with Melton Centrals in 2018-19, Rangika claimed it for the second time after a strong season with Burnside Springs United in the recently completed season.
He took 41 wickets while making scores of 30 or above in six of his 10 innings.
“It was a good feeling,” he said. “It was my second time.
“The first one I took 42 wickets and 492 runs and this year maybe about the same.
“Everytime I get this award, it feels good.”
Rangika said it was a surprise to take home the award. He said his coach of the past two seasons, Cass Elorza had played a big role in him getting the award, as he the president Darren Ballie and his teammates.
He said he was really happy with how he played this season, his second at Burnside.
“Second season, now we have a brand new cricket ground and nets and facilities, it is good,” he said.
Rangika said as a side they would like to take the next step and make the grand final and go up to a higher division.
“I’m happy playing at Burnside, I want to help Burnside get to the next level.”
Burnside captain Mathew Sanders also made the team of the year.
Rangika said Sanders had his best season this year and was worthy of being in the team of the year.
Big things are already under way at Burnside for next season, with Ashan Ranaweera appointed the club’s new coach. He crosses from Sunbury.
Rangika said he was looking forward to playing under Ranaweera.
In other awards, Melton Centrals’ Steve Robertson was also named in the Russell Pollock team of the year.
Melton South Royals’ Praveen De Silva shared the Evans-Clark player of the year award.
He was named in the team of the year, while teammates Andrew Hodgart and Saman Muthuwdige were named in the side as well.
