EMERGING batsman Matthew Gilkes, from Ulladulla, did not expect to be part of a NSW Blues squad challenging for a Sheffield Shield title so quickly but is loving every minute of the experience.
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After bursting onto the scene with a half-century on debut for the Sydney Thunder last summer, Gilkes has quickly developed into a regular member of the Blues One-Day Cup and Sheffield Shield squads in his first season as a contracted player.
The 20-year-old last week made his maiden half-century in first class cricket, 83 from 132 deliveries, during the 133-run win over South Australia.
It was his fourth first class match.
The victory put the Blues two wins clear at the top of the Shield table with two rounds remaining.
Gilkes is one of 13 players travelling to Hobart for round nine of the Sheffield Shield.
Earlier in the season, the dynamic left-hander displayed his pure ball striking when he made an explosive 82 from 51 balls against Western Australia in the one-day cup.
"It's been a much different year compared to what I am used to with usually just playing grade cricket ... it's been much busier, but I'm really loving it," said Gilkes.
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"We've got a great bunch of guys to be around, so really been enjoying it.
"It was a good flat wicket at Bankstown, it was good to spend a bit of time out there and contribute to a good winning total in the first innings."
While Gilkes has made a few minor technical changes this season, he has heavily focused on the mental side of his batting.
"I'm still continuing to work with (Blues batting coach Mike Yardy and head coach Phil Jaques) on me making good decisions out there while I'm batting, that's been the main focus for me," he said.
"Just trying to do that for long periods."
The support he receives from home, on the South Coast, has also meant a great deal to Gilkes.
"It's a tight community down there, I've absolutely been loving the support I've been getting and it's all really appreciated."
