We sat down with 1st XI skipper on the eve of the season for a preseason interview.
How’s the buildup to the season been? It must be nice to have had a chance for substantial preparations after the last couple of years?
Yes, it’s been nice to be able to have a proper indoor net programme this year for the first time in a couple of years. We were at the Buzz about Cricket centre which was a nice change.
We were lucky enough to be joined by a couple of new players indoors with Jay Porter signing on.
We’ve started training outdoors now on a Thursday from 6-8 and the turn out has been encouraging. Availability is decent for the pre season games and we’re looking forward to getting going starting with a trip to Sandford.
What’s the goal for the season & how do we get there? Any changes in approach for this season?
From a 1st XI perspective, it will be about staying up and consolidating in the A Division. I’m under no illusions that that won’t be easy, particularly looking at how other clubs have strengthened. We have added to the squad too of course with Jason and Jay.
I don’t think we need to change too much from last year in terms of our approach to games, but one thing I have said to the boys is that we are likely to win fewer matches, so for those games that we don’t win, we need to focus on bonus points.
I’ve made no secret about wanting to get the 2nd XI promoted. This also won’t be easy with the likes of Bobby Heard and Luke Vukusic away travelling and will depend a lot on availability; but if availability is strong then I don’t see why we can’t compete.
Have you identified any areas we need to work on from last year?
This is difficult considering how strong we were last year, but making the change from 45 overs to 50 overs will make batting the overs that bit more difficult. Batting the overs is something I talk about a lot and I don’t see that changing this season.
Who are your ones to watch for the season?
Another difficult one given how much of a team effort last season was. Obviously everyone is excited to see what Jason can do. I’m also looking forward to Dave Hooper’s first full season. I’d also mention George Daldorph who performed well in the 1st XI at the back end of last season and in the Corinthian Cup. I’d expect him to have plenty of opportunities this summer.
Which sides do you think will provide the sternest tests during the season?
There won’t be any easy games that’s for sure. Naturally, Exmouth and Exeter coming down from the Premier Division will be strong and I know the boys can’t want to visit those grounds. Torquay sound strong too so that will be a tough opening day. It looks like Plympton have some guys around the Devon set up too. I’ve never played there so looking forward to that one as well.
A tough draw in the Devon T20, but it must be nice to test ourselves against some of the toughest opponents in the county?
Yes, it’s a shame in some way that we can’t attempt to defend the Corinthian Cup but looking forward to making the next step. We also have the covid cup with Bradninch, Clyst St George and Exeter so plenty of top quality T20 cricket for spectators to see at Station Ground.
What do you think the main differences will be in comparison to the B Division?
Naturally, I’m expecting a slightly higher standard of cricket. I think teams are likely to bat a bit deeper, particularly those at the top end of the table.
The extra 5 overs per innings will be an interesting change too, as previously mentioned. There will be some challenges like batting for longer but I’m looking forward to being able to use some of my strike bowlers for 10 overs instead of 9. It gives more opportunity for 3 spells rather than 2.
Finally – you often delivered on your promise that if the 1s and 2s both won on the same Saturday, you would get the beers in. Can we expect the same this season?
Yep absolutely! 2 wins and the first jug is on me.
Thorverton Cricket Club 