AFTER not claiming silverware in any of the three major competitions last season, the Bomaderry Tigers have strengthened considerably ahead of their 2017/18 Shoalhaven District Cricket Association campaign.
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The Tigers, who finished as semi-finalists in the two-day format, have welcomed back Jordan Matthews, Michael Coulter and Matt O’Brien to the club.
“We've had a great off-season in gaining the services of three top line first grade players,” Bomaderry Cricket Club president Jarryd Sue said.
“We're excited to have two guys who came through our junior ranks in Jordan Matthews and Michael Coulter returning to the club.
“Jordan was the best bowler in the competition last season he played here and is reliable with the bat.
“While Michael is probably the most consistent all round performer in the competition over the last 5-10 seasons.
“Michael’s spin will be complimented by the return of Matt O’Brien, who we believe was the number one spinner in the competition when he played two seasons ago.”
While these additions are sure to make Bomaderry one of the top clubs in the competition, they have also lost a number of key players from last season.
“Ben King Gee is a big loss and he would be for any team,” Sue said.
“He's a great batsman with a level head, which will be missed in the middle order this season.
“As such, we're expecting a big season from Zac Blattner, who came on last season and he will actually be captaining our T20 side - which goes to show how well he is regarded at the club.
“Travis Roth is also looking to step back up to the top grade this season – we expect these two to cover the hole left in the middle order.”
Of the three formats, Sue believes his club are best suited to the two-day format but are wary of the threat that reigning premiers Berry-Shoalhaven Heads pose.
“We have a long batting list right down to 10 and have a strong bowling unit, with four key bowlers who can all bowl big spells - which should suit the longer format,” he said.
“We were massively disappointed in the end to last season and want to bring the cup back to Bomaderry.
“Berry are the double reigning champions, so they are the obvious favourites to start the season, while both North Nowra-Cambewarra and Shoalhaven Ex-Servicemens will be tough.”
Squad: Nick McDonald ©, Michael Coulter, Blake Munilla, Travis Roth, Justin Ganderton (vc), Zac Blattner, Graham Davidson, Nick Jennings, Jarryd Sue, Jordan Matthews, John Muggleton, Matt O’Brien.