Netherfield pro Kruger arrives shortly
Marc Hadwin will skipper Netherfield in 2010 |
Marc Hadwin takes over as Netherfield captain as the 2008 champions plot a title challenge.
Champions five times since 1997, Netherfield always start each season in optimistic mood and this one is no different. Last year Netherfield finished fourth but lifted the league cup by defeating Kendal on the final Sunday of the season.
Hadwin says. "We have a settled side with very little change from last season and are looking forward to the campaign."
Queensland opener Nick Kruger replaces fellow State player Glen Batticciotto as professional and will arrive in good time for the season. Kruger, like early order batsmen Craig Walmsley and Chris Parry is a left-handed batsman.
"In my time at Netherfield I've been fortunate to play with some good professionals and Nick comes highly recommended," Hadwin says. "He only has to look at the example of Callum Ferguson, our professional in 2008 to see what can happen.
"Callum came here, broke the league batting record and forced his way into the Australian international team."
Parry has stepped down as captain after two years and is looking to recapture his top batting form after a disappointing season, by his own high standard in 2009.
With Walmsley one of the league's top openers and teenagers John Huck and Alex Atkinson batting in the top six Netherfield should not be short of runs, especially on their own excellent Parkside Road pitches.
Huck, who will also keep wicket and Atkinson have been having trials with Lancashire Under 19s.
"It will be great to have both John and Alex for the full season and we are looking for them to continue their development," Hadwin says. "Young players will always get their chance at the club."
Hadwin expects Ben Barrow, who has wintered in Australia and Nathan Chambers to also challenge for a first-team place this year.
On the bowling front Ryan Wilson is fit again after missing much of the 2009 season and will shoulder the seam bowling together with vice captain Scott Clement and Stuart Nixon. "The pro can also turn his arm over," Hadwin adds. "So we should have plenty of options."
Netherfield have lost Chris Miller, the off-spinner deciding to return to Kendal; that leaves leg-spinner Hadwin as the main spinner at the club alongside his captaincy duties. It's a dual role that Hadwin is relishing.
"I made my first team debut back in 1990 and have spent a long time down at long leg," Hadwin jokes. "When Chris decided to stand down I was happy to take on the challenge and I've got Scott to help me as vice captain.
"We shall aim to win every game and see where that takes us."
Tom Barton continues as Netherfield Second XI captain.
Netherfield start their campaign at home to Morecambe on 17 April (1pm).
Scott Clement will again shoulder much of the bowling responsibility |
