Melville steps up to the crease
THE Melville Cricket Club will begin its campaign away to Claremont-Nedlands on Saturday after rain prevented it from taking the field against South Perth in round one.
The Tigers fell in the semi-final last year and look likely to again challenge for the title this season.
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READ NOWKeagan Africa has been acquired from University in a coaching and playing capacity to boost the bowling stocks for Claremont-Nedlands, while the Tigers’ powerful batting line-up remains largely unchanged.
Prominent youngsters Tim David and Nick Hobson have returned from England with runs in the bank, with former Claremont-Nedlands junior Cameron Steel following the pair, returning from Middlesex.
Matt Kelly will lead the attack after a stellar 2016 that was rewarded with a Western Warriors Rookie Contract.
Melville will back up against Willetton on Sunday.
The Dragons finished second last season and secured the services of both Aaron Harwood and Darcy Short in a busy winter.
Many view Willetton as early premiership favourites and this contest will provide an early barometer of Melville’s chances this season.