By Tara Murray
St Anthonys is excited about the challenge ahead as it returns to the Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup competition.
Having won last season’s Johnstone Shield, the Saints earned promotion back into the top flight – right where they wanted to be.
Saints captain-coach Cam Clayton said it was pretty exciting at the club.
“It’s been the aim for the last four years,” he said of being back in McIntyre Cup.
“We came close against Wallan the previous year and we’ve finally got there.
“The vibe among the group is good. It’s a big jump, but they are aware of the jump.
“It’s the pinnacle of the GDCA and it’s where you want to play cricket.”
Clayton said they were calling on the experience of those who had previously played in McIntyre, including himself.
There are a few changes to last season’s side, which Clayton said wasn’t unexpected.
“It was always going to happen,” he said.
“We stuck around as a group to get the premiership and success that we wanted.”
Those not returning are Simon Blanks who isn’t playing cricket this season, Robert Strugnell (Bacchus Marsh) and John Jensen (Melton) who have joined other clubs.
Clayton said they were keen to focus on bringing through the youth at the club.
He said two youngsters, Alex Kerr and Conrad Farrugia were two who would get a shot early in the season.
Farrugia made consecutive centuries in lower level finals last season.
“Alex was in our father-son team last year and made just over 1000 runs for the year in juniors and seniors. He’s 14-years-old. He goes to school in Ballarat and he’s in their first XI and he’s part of the national school boys carnival later this year.
“Conrad made close to 1000 runs as well. They haven’t missed a beat and bring enthusiasm and excitement, they’re looking forward to the challenge.”
Clayton said Thomas Stoneham was one recruit for this season, and they are waiting for confirmation about another.
St Anthonys kicks off its season on Saturday in a one-dayer against Sunbury United.
In other first round matches, Woodend faces Riddell; Romsey plays Diggers Rest Bulla; and Gisborne hosts Bacchus Marsh in the grand final rematch.
Eynesbury, which has dropped down to Jensen Shield, starts its season against Woodend, while Aintree takes on Sunbury.
