In the Bloods’ first season in Premier Division, the batting has been consistent with high scores led by Jesse Barker.
Barker top scored with 115 runs in one innings and at the Christmas break finishes with an average of 36.00.
Barker has also bowled strongly for Tocumwal, claiming 13 wickets and an average of 21.73.
Rod Meloury and Ranji Oliver have both backed up Barker with averages of 38.00 and 29.67 respectively.
Off season recruit Daniel Hibberd has unsurprisingly shown his veteran status scoring 184 runs in seven innings.
Captain Chris Shaw said he’s been happy with how the season has unfolded for the young team.
‘‘I think we’re doing pretty well in the top flight considering it’s the first time in about six years we’ve played in Premier; it’s a learning curve for the young players,’’ he said.
‘‘At the start of the season we went in wanting to establish our young team and make sure they can get a taste of what Premier Division is about.
‘‘Michael Roberts has done a really good job behind the wickets and has also contributed with the bat.
‘‘The big highlight was getting the first win on the board; that was special for the players and the club.
‘‘Overall I’m extremely happy with every player; they’ve all contributed.’’
Leading the way for the Tocumwal bowling has been Finley recruit Matt Wilson, snaring 14 wickets for Tocumwal.
Also chiming in with wickets have been Jesse Barker (11) and Andrew Arthur (8).
‘‘Young Matt has done really well with his off-spinners and has been backed up by Jesse and Andrew as the seam bowlers,’’ Shaw said.
‘‘Jesse is quite a talented cricketer, he’s our vice captain and will be a big part of the Tocumwal Cricket Club future.’’
Shaw said moving forward the team ‘‘just has to keep improving’’.
‘‘We can improve in all areas by simple things like batting out our overs or putting up a score we can defend if batting first.’’
Tocumwal will play Katamatite over the next two weekends at the Tocumwal Recreation Reserve, as part of the two day fixture.
The last times these two teams played was in round one with Katamatite scoring 254 runs and Tocumwal 189.
Hibberd top scored for Tocumwal with 53 and Wilson snared three wickets, plus Shaw chimed in with two.
‘‘We played well against them in round one. They’re a quality side who are chasing a finals spot so it’ll be a challenge but I’m confident the boys can get the job done and put in a good effort.’’
The match between Tocumwal and Katamatite starts at 12.30pm at the Tocumwal Recreation Reserve.
Tocumwal Division One will be playing an away game against Cobram, whilst the Division Two side plays CYU at Cobram Scott Reserve. Both games start at 1pm.
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