Stevens tips major lift from paceman
GOLD Coast captain Nick Stevens has backed paceman Josh Arnold to bounce back for this weekend’s doubleheader after a nightmare day at the office.
Arnold was belted all around Bill Pippen Oval on Saturday as University of Queensland claimed a 98-run Queensland Premier Cricket win. His 1-103 off 10 overs marked the first time in his respected Dolphins career – now into its seventh season – that he has conceded triple figures.
“It’s not something that you want to happen as a bowler but I’m sure he’ll bounce back,” Stevens said.
“He’s been bowling pretty well over the last few seasons. It was just one of those days. He’ll train pretty hard this week and be pretty keen for next week to redeem himself.”
Arnold was especially targeted in the death overs but his skipper showed full faith in his trusted quick.
“He is someone I turn to,” Stevens said. “He has played enough first grade to know what he is doing so I’d back him in those situations.”
The rest of the Dolphins attack did well to keep University’s score from blowing out beyond 277, with Xavier Bartlett taking 4-47 (8.5), spinners Dan Doran and Matt Kuhnemann bowling tidily and parttimer Max Bryant removing danger man Scott Henry.
Rocked by the late withdrawal of Round 1 star Cameron Francis due to a mystery injury – his replacement Jack Hargreaves was called up on Friday night – Gold Coast’s response with the bat faltered early.
The home side fell to 6-84 before being dismissed for 179 following lower-order resistance from Kuhnemann (31 not out) and Bartlett (37). Opener Oscar Richardson had earlier hit 48. “It’s a bit disappointing but it’s only one loss and we’re looking forward to next week,” Stevens said.
It is hoped Francis will be fit to return for games on Saturday and Sunday against Redlands (home) and Norths (away), respectively.
Canning Mason is likely to come into selection consideration, having backed up a trial match ton with a standout knock of 101 in the Dolphins’ second grade season-opener on Saturday.