Rugby Union has been the form team in the Bathurst District Cricket Association first grade competition and the same can be said about its second team.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Bulldogs currently lead the competition over second placed Bathurst City, by 3.02 points.
Bulldogs player Andrew Smith has made the jump between first and second this season, playing one first grade match and six second grade games.
Smith said he is pleased and proud of his teams efforts this season.
“We’ve started really well and I'm confident we’ll continue performing well,” he said.
“We all know our roles and we’re all keen to do the job for our team mates.”
Smith is not the only player to make the switch between Bulldogs’ first and second squads, with Michael Tobin, Jeremy Thackray and Michael Anderson amongst the few to make the grade switches.
Experience has helped the Bulldogs adapt to the frequent squad changes.
“Most of our players in seconds have had experience playing firsts, so I think it definitely helps [adapting to frequent squad changes],” Smith said.
“Also, all players from both teams get along and gel together nicely.”
There is a strong self belief in the Bulldogs squad, that their team unity will take them far this season.
“We are confident that we will make finals this season and we’ll certainly be a contender for the title.
“We’ll give it our best shot.”
Kesh Pillai has “fired” this season with the bat for Bulldogs, alongside other top order batsmen – Jared Kelly and Smith.
Shawn Edwards and Brendan Pallier have both been consistently taking wickets week after week, however Smith said bowling is shared around most weeks, making it a team effort.
Smith underlined mateship and positivity on the field has been a huge part of the Bulldogs success so far this season.
“Banter here and there keeps the spirits up,” Smith said.
Smith has a decent record in second grade, with 132 runs from six innings.
His only game in first grade produced no runs from one inning, but was not out after coming in at number eleven.
Bathurst City’s Jay Cleary leads the batting statistics for second grade, with 269 runs off seven innings.
Both Rice Dene and Timothy Ryan of Bathurst City have taken 14 wickets apiece, to lead the bowling statistics.
All grades will enjoy an extra week break over the festive period due to games being washout out on Saturday, before returning to play in the new year.
Rugby Union’s return against Bathurst City at George Park on January 7.
