New Balls Are Out - The Kooka Sniff

There is always something alluring about the lustre of a brand new Kookaburra that elevates the competitive juices which is difficult to explain. In a skills and exploration session at Topline tonight, the purpose was for captain Dickson to have a first hand view at some bowlers that can deliver some interesting options regarding our quality depth if they are able to continue working hard and getting it right.

David Saker, a wholehearted, resilient cricketer with 247 first class wickets and Bushrangers assistant coach, was on hand to provide guidance. Sakes did not find it hard to share his appreciation of the finer skills when he saw the dimensions of Winton, Watson and Ingram along with the intent they displayed for the battle ahead.

New balls out with bowlers delivering 12 balls maximum in a rotating period while one rested ensured that Dickson first partnered by Vardi (Chelsea won again overnight & are on the way 2-0 overall) and then a well organised Chris Barry (thanks MCC) were given no respite.

A few early deliveries testing the off width to start with the new rock before lines were tightened forced questions that needed answers from the bats. Winton building into a good rhythm from a shortened run did express reasonable pace and movement. Further modification in body dimensions where he is working hard to control, may result in the big fellow not being far off the mark in being a genuine contender.

Josh Ingram was able to give evidence that he is ready to step up the Grade cricket level and with his body type should relish the work load expected to be more than 80 overs this season.

Angus has gained considerable size and remained stream lined in shape, inner city living has had a positive effect so far, his natural ability to move the ball still in hand.

Fletcher finished a session on the machine with Bremner (thanks to Greg Vardi for feeding) and delivered a few overs of leg spin with the technical consistency starting to appear with good delivery form at the crease.

A quiet word today with Blackers, decks are starting to look good, should be on turf down the bottom ground very soon with no sport played there this winter.