NORTH Sportsman’s Cricket Club is set for the upcoming Barber Shield season, with a few changes to the roster, which includes Matt McInerney as captain.
McInerney steps in from Tim Young, who will this season focus more on his own game.
McInerney said he will bring an attacking mindset to the top job.
“I will be very attacking with field placements and bowling changes,” he said.
“But also get back to having a lot of fun.
“A few years ago we were having so much fun and playing awesome cricket.
“I think that will be the main message.”
A major motivating factor for North this season will be to atone for last season’s grand final loss to Penola.
The Tigers lost just one minor round game last season – to West Gambier – but stumbled at the final hurdle.
That is something driving McInerney.
“That was a bit of a wake up call for us,” he said.
“A few guys in the bottom of the batting order had not been exposed all year until that last game.
“We lost a few early wickets and they were exposed.
“We will mix the order around this year to make sure everyone is ready come March.”
The Tigers can certainly be confident of a chance at another flag this season, with only a few changes from the previous roster.
Out is Gavin Coon, but that loss is covered by the ins.
Mitch Lewis returns after a couple of seasons in England, Justin McConnell is also back, while Kayne Badman has come across from West Gambier.
Josh Fidler is back from injury to bolster the bowling attack, while Nick McInerney may take a few games to return to the bowling crease, but will return.
Along with there will be several junior players who will put their hands up should a spot arise in the side.
North faces Mil Lel first up, which should provide a good indication of where the side is at.
But McInerney is under no illusions about the strength of the competition.
“There will not be any easy games,” he said.
“If you do not rock up this season I think you will find out about it.
“I think West will be one to watch and Penola should be quite handy as well.”
Despite only one outdoor training session so far due to the weather, McInerney said the vibe was positive.
“We will have a squad of about 14 and we have had positive numbers at training,” he said.
“There have been a lot of juniors at training and I think everyone is keen and ready to go.”
And that attitude certainly starts from the top.
When asked about the weather this weekend, McInerney was quite clear with his response.
“I hope it does not rain,” he said.
“I just want to play some cricket.”
